Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the 12th South Asian Games, 2016 in a glittering ceremony at the Sarusajai Sports Complex in Guwahati. In his address at the Indira Gandhi Athletics Stadium, Mr. Modi said he is privileged to be among the players of the SAARC countries. He said the South Asian Games demonstrate 3-Ts – Team work, Togetherness and Talent.

The players of all 8-participating nations marched past a crowd of thousands who cheered for them with applause. Squash Player Gaurav Ghoshal was the flag bearer of the 521-member Indian contingent. Star Shooter Gagan Narang started the torch relay which was finished by veteran Footballer Bhaichung Bhutia, who lit the flame for the games. The top athletes including Anju Bobby George and Krishna Punia also took part in the relay.

Colorful cultural performance by artistes, on the occasion of the 12th South Asian Games-2016, at Indira Gandhi Athletics Stadium, in Guwahati, Assam.

The cultural show, which followed the flame lighting ceremony was a glittering spectacle showcasing the confluence of the digital and the traditional. Immersing the grounds in a show of vivid colours and lights ,the show started with the theme song of the Games, ‘Ai Prithibi Ek Krirangan’.

The 12th South Asian Games, 2016 is the first international multi-sporting mega event in the North Eastern region. Athletes from eight member countries namely – Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Maldives, Nepal, Pakistan and Sri Lanka will be participating. Around 3500 athletes and sports officials from 8 countries are participating in the biggest ever sporting spectacle in the North East India.

Over 2500 athletes from India, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, Afghanistan, Nepal, Bhutan and Maldives will be part of the games which will be co-hosted by Meghalaya Capital, Shillong. A total of 228 events in 23 sports disciplines will be played during the games for the next 11 days.