Bhubaneswar: Odisha’s Puri district will host the Fit India Carnival 2026 from March 15–17, marking the inaugural edition of this flagship event in the state as part of the nationwide Fit India Mission.
It is being jointly organised by Sports Authority of India (SAI) and the Odisha Sports and Youth Services Department with the objective to promote healthy and active lifestyles among people of all ages, in line with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s Fit India initiative.
In this regard, a review meeting was held at SAI’s regional office in Kolkata under the chairmanship of Odisha Sports Minister Suryabanshi Suraj, who reviewed the preparations for the upcoming carnival. The Minister emphasised that adopting a healthy lifestyle is essential for maintaining both physical and mental fitness. 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 SAI officials on strengthening sports infrastructure in Odisha. He later inspected the facilities at the regional office and interacted with athletes.
The three-day event will see 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.
The event will also showcase Odisha’s rich art and cultural heritage through cultural performances.
