Fit India Carnival–2026 to be Held in Puri from March 15–17; Sports Minister Reviews Preparations

Bhubaneswar, March 2026 : The Fit India Carnival–2026 will be organised in Puri district from 15th to 17th March through the joint initiative of the Sports Authority of India and the Sports & Youth Services Department, Government of Odisha. In this regard, a 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 reviewed the preparations for the upcoming carnival. The programme is being organised under the Fit India Mission launched by Prime Minister Narendra Modi with the objective of promoting a healthy and active lifestyle among citizens.

The three-day event will ensure the participation of youth, women, senior citizens, volunteers from National Cadet Corps (NCC) and National Service Scheme (NSS), self-help groups and members of various communities.

Several activities will be organised during the carnival. Morning sessions at the Puri beach will include yoga, pranayama, walkathons, marathons and sporting events such as athletics, football, Zumba, aerobics and volleyball. Special arrangements such as a Kids’ Zone and Women’s Wellness Zone will be set up for women and children. To promote physical and mental well-being, an AYUSH Wellness Centre and group meditation sessions will also be organised.

Evening programmes will feature cultural and fitness-related events including performances of traditional arts like Gotipua dance and Mallakhamb, a fitness fashion walk, cultural performances and an open mic session on fitness stories.

Speaking on the occasion, Sports Minister Shri 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 strengthening sports infrastructure in Odisha. He later inspected the facilities at the regional office and interacted with athletes. The meeting was attended by Regional Director (East) of the Sports Authority of India, Shri Shivanandan Mishra, along with other senior officials.

Avinash Sagar