Minister Vakiti Srihari Unveils Poster of Statewide Fitness Movement
‘9+9+9 Fitness Challenge’ to Encourage Mass Participation in Physical Activity
HYDERABAD, SEPTEMBER 22, 2026: To expand the culture of sports across Telangana and promote a healthier society through regular physical activity, the Department of Sports and the Sports Authority of Telangana (SATG) are launching the “Khelo Telangana” initiative.
Minister for Sports and Youth Services Vakiti Srihari unveiled the programme’s official poster at the State Secretariat on Tuesday.
Speaking on the occasion, the Minister said that the initiative aims to create widespread awareness on fitness and encourage people of all age groups to dedicate at least 30 minutes every day to physical activity. He emphasised that regular exercise is essential for building a healthy and productive society and that the Government is committed to making fitness a people’s movement.
Khelo Telangana Bandhan for a Fitter Telangana
As part of the initiative, the “Khelo Telangana Bandhan” campaign will motivate citizens to make walking, jogging, running, yoga and other fitness activities an integral part of their daily lives. The campaign seeks to inspire greater community participation in fitness activities and foster a culture of healthy living across the State.
9+9+9 Fitness Challenge
A major highlight of the programme is the “9+9+9 Fitness Challenge.” Participants are required to upload a 27-second video showcasing their fitness activity on social media, tag nine friends, and encourage them to invite nine more participants to take up the challenge. The initiative is designed to create a statewide chain of participation and spread awareness about the importance of physical fitness.
Leagues and Competitions in Multiple Sports Disciplines
To strengthen the sporting ecosystem and transform sports into a mass movement, the Department plans to organise leagues and competitions in a wide range of disciplines, including Wrestling, Boxing, Volleyball, Table Tennis, Judo, Basketball, Athletics, Football, Cycling and Yoga, among others.
Officials stated that opportunities will be provided from the school level onwards, covering all age groups, with a focus on encouraging participation, identifying talent and nurturing future champions.
The initiative is also expected to contribute significantly to the promotion of sports culture and fitness awareness throughout Telangana.
Dignitaries Present
The programme was attended by Sports Advisor to the Government of Telangana Sri A.P. Jitender Reddy, Special Chief Secretary Sri Jayesh Ranjan, , Vice Chairman & Managing Director, Sports Authority of Telangana, A. Sonibala Devi, Telangana Olympic Association Secretary Sri Malla Reddy, and other senior officials.
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