THEBUSINESSBYTES BUREAU

BHUBANESWAR, MARCH 9, 2026

The Fit India Carnival–2026 will be organised in Puri district from March 15 to 17 through a joint initiative of the Sports Authority of India and the Sports & Youth Services Department, Government of Odisha. In this connection, a comprehensive review meeting was held at the regional office of the Sports Authority of India in Kolkata under the chairmanship of Odisha Sports Minister Shri Suryabanshi Suraj.

During the meeting, the Minister took stock of the preparations for the upcoming carnival and reviewed the progress of various arrangements being put in place. The programme is being organised under the Fit India Mission launched by Prime Minister Narendra Modi with the objective of encouraging citizens to adopt a healthy, active and disciplined lifestyle.

The three-day carnival will witness the enthusiastic participation of youth, women, senior citizens, volunteers from the National Cadet Corps (NCC) and National Service Scheme (NSS), members of self-help groups, and representatives from different sections of the community, making it a vibrant and inclusive celebration of fitness and well-being.

A wide range of activities has been planned as part of the carnival. The morning sessions at Puri beach will feature yoga, pranayama, walkathons, marathons and several sporting activities such as athletics, football, Zumba, aerobics and volleyball. Special attractions including a Kids’ Zone and a Women’s Wellness Zone will be created to engage women and children in fitness-oriented activities. In addition, an AYUSH Wellness Centre and group meditation sessions will be organised to promote both physical and mental well-being among participants.

The evening programmes will present a lively blend of culture and fitness. These will include performances of traditional arts such as Gotipua dance and Mallakhamb, a fitness fashion walk, vibrant cultural performances and an open mic session where participants can share inspiring fitness stories.

Speaking on the occasion, Sports Minister Suryabanshi Suraj said that for the first time in Odisha, the Fit India Carnival will be organised in Puri under the Fit India Mission. He emphasised that adopting a healthy lifestyle is essential for maintaining both physical and mental fitness. The event will also showcase Odisha’s rich art and cultural heritage through cultural performances.

He further stated that all administrative and logistical arrangements have been put in place for the successful conduct of the carnival. Expressing optimism, he hoped that people from Puri district as well as across Odisha would actively participate and make the event a grand success.

During the visit, the Minister also held discussions with officials of the Sports Authority of India on further strengthening sports infrastructure in Odisha and exploring opportunities to enhance training facilities for athletes. He later inspected the facilities at the regional office and interacted with athletes to understand their experiences and requirements.

The meeting was attended by Regional Director (East) of the Sports Authority of India, Shivanandan Mishra, along with other senior officials.