New Delhi, February 16 (). The annual Sports Week 2026 of the Election Commission of India (ECI) began with enthusiasm and excitement on Monday at the Commonwealth Games Sports Complex in Delhi. The week-long event was inaugurated by Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar.
The Chief Election Commissioner said that the basic elements that define sports are transparency, honesty and fairness. These are the same principles that make the foundation of India’s electoral process strong and people also stay healthy by playing. Sports is very important. Everyone should play.
He said that just as respect for rules and fair competition are essential in the playground, similarly free and fair elections are essential in a democracy. He inspired all the participants to participate in the competitions with full enthusiasm and sportsmanship. Addressing the participants, he underlined the deep connection between the spirit of sportsmanship and democratic values.
The sports week started with the 100 meter women’s race under the theme “Run for Democracy”, which was flagged off by the Chief Election Commissioner. The theme of this year’s event has been “Coordination in the Field, Strength in Democracy”, which combines the spirit of teamwork and cooperation with democratic empowerment.
A total of 383 participants, including 72 women, are taking part in this annual sports week organized by the Recreation Club of ECI. Competitions will be held in 43 categories of 7 different sports.
These include chess, carrom, table tennis, badminton, cricket, football and athletics track events. In athletics, 100, 200, 400 and 800 meter race competitions will be held in different age categories for men and women.
The objective of the event is to promote mutual coordination, team spirit and healthy competition among the employees. The event is expected to be full of excitement and energy with various competitions throughout the week.
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SAK/AS
