~ Dal Lake in Srinagar to Host Inaugural Khelo India Water Games from August 21–23, 2025 ~
Srinagar, July 3, 2025 — In a landmark move to strengthen India’s aquatic sports landscape, the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports has announced the first-ever Khelo India Water Sports Festival, scheduled to be held from August 21 to 23, 2025, at the iconic Dal Lake in Srinagar.
Announcing the event, Union Minister Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya reaffirmed the government’s commitment to broad-basing sports in Bharat, emphasizing the inclusive nature of the Khelo India initiative.
Coming on the heels of the Khelo India Beach Games held in Diu this May, this newest addition to the Khelo India calendar promises thrilling action across five water sports disciplines—kayaking and canoeing, rowing, water skiing, shikara racing, and dragon boat racing.
“The Khelo India Water Sports Festival is another proof of the government’s commitment to broad base sports and creating more opportunities for athletes to express themselves at the national level. Like the first Khelo India Beach Games in Diu, we want Khelo India to become more inclusive and reach out to every corner of the country,” said Dr. Mandaviya.
Over 400 athletes from all 36 States and Union Territories are expected to compete, with nominations selected through National Sports Federations based on performance in national championships or other qualifying events approved by the Games Technical Conduct Committee.
Dr. Mandaviya also highlighted the significance of India’s growing potential in water sports within Asia: “The water sports festival in Dal Lake will help expose emerging talent and prepare them for international events. Our water sports facilities have the latest infrastructure and good coaches. We only want new athletes to come and seek excellence in water games.”
This event marks the fifth Khelo India sports initiative in 2025, following the Khelo India Winter Games in Ladakh and J&K, Para Games in Delhi, Youth Games in Bihar and Delhi, and the Beach Games in Dadra & Nagar Haveli and Daman & Diu.
