India’s coastline is set to transform into a vibrant national sporting arena as the 2nd Khelo India Beach Games are scheduled at Diu from January 5 to 10, 2026, promising an energetic celebration of beach and indigenous sports.

The 2nd Khelo India Beach Games will bring together over 1,300 athletes from across the country. Strong contingents from states such as Maharashtra, Haryana, Uttar Pradesh, Gujarat, Tamil Nadu, Kerala and Manipur, alongside Union Territories including Chandigarh, Puducherry, and Dadra & Nagar Haveli and Daman & Diu, will reflect the growing reach and popularity of beach-based disciplines within India’s sporting ecosystem.

The Games will feature competition across six medal disciplines. Participation includes 263 athletes in Beach Sepaktakraw, 157 in Beach Pencak Silat, 156 in Beach Soccer, 96 in Beach Kabaddi, 64 in Beach Volleyball and 50 in Open Water Swimming.

In addition to the competitive events, traditional Indian disciplines such as Mallakhamb and Tug of War will be conducted as non-competitive demonstration events. These disciplines will feature 336 athletes, reinforcing the Games’ focus on preserving, promoting and providing national exposure to India’s rich indigenous sporting heritage.

Manipur enters the Games with added confidence after emerging as the top-performing state in the previous Khelo India cycle, finishing with 14 medals. Beyond medals and podium finishes, the Games aim to build a broader sporting movement by expanding opportunities in emerging beach disciplines. The Games will encourage youth participation beyond traditional sports and geographies, and foster community pride, cultural identity and sustainable sports development.

As India continues to evolve and diversify its sporting landscape, the 2nd Khelo India Beach Games promise a compelling blend of competition, culture and coastline, transforming Diu into a hub of athletic excellence and national celebration.