IOC Launches 'Let's Move' Initiative in India to Inspire Youth Through Sports

IOC Partners with Foundations for Youth Sports Initiative

The International Olympic Committee (IOC) has rejoined forces with the Abhinav Bindra Foundation and Reliance Foundation to introduce the 'Let's Move' initiative in India. This year-round campaign is designed to promote sports participation among young individuals, harnessing the motivational power of the Olympic movement.

Kickoff of 'You Can Do This. Let's Move'

Launching on Olympic Day, June 23, the campaign 'You Can Do This. Let's Move' will feature various sporting events and digital content across India. This initiative aims to empower youth to engage in physical activities and reap the numerous benefits associated with sports.

Empowering Youth Through Sports

The campaign emphasizes the role of sports in fostering self-belief. Olympian Jyothi Yarraji shared her experience, stating, "Sport has provided me with physical health, a supportive community, and the confidence to believe in myself. I hope more young people realize their potential, as sometimes all it takes is that first step."

According to a World Health Organization report, 74% of children and adolescents (ages 11-17) and 49% of adults in India are not meeting the recommended activity levels for optimal health. This lack of activity contributes to various health challenges globally. Research indicates that self-doubt is a significant barrier for young people in engaging in physical activities. However, even short bursts of exercise can enhance mood and energy levels.

Reliance Foundation's Commitment to Youth Engagement

In collaboration with the IOC, the Reliance Foundation is expanding the Olympic Values Education Programme (OVEP) to reach more young individuals across India. Since 2024, this partnership has positively impacted over 338,900 students in 464 schools and community centers across 16 states. This year, the foundation aims to involve around 1,800 Anganwadis and 44,000 children in Olympic Day celebrations, focusing on the theme 'You Can Do This'.

Abhinav Bindra Foundation's Expansion of Sports Programs

The Abhinav Bindra Foundation is extending its efforts to engage youth in physical activities across five new regions: Odisha, Assam, Chandigarh, Telangana, and Meghalaya. On Olympic Day, students will participate in various indoor sports and activities, including yoga, aiming to involve approximately 4 million students throughout the campaign.

Community Involvement on Olympic Day

This year, numerous community running clubs will celebrate Olympic Day on June 23 by organizing themed runs. These sessions will last for twenty minutes and twenty-eight seconds, commemorating the upcoming Olympic Games in Los Angeles, where cricket will be included for the first time since 1900.

The Evolution of 'Let's Move'

'Let's Move' started as an Olympic Day initiative but has evolved into a year-round campaign promoting fitness and sports participation. Launched in 2023, it aims to highlight the positive effects of physical activity on mental and physical health. Each year, the campaign addresses different barriers to participation, encouraging individuals to engage in sports.

Celebrating Olympic Day

The theme for this year's Olympic Day is 'You Can Do This', celebrating the global spirit of sports and physical activity on June 23, marking the founding of the modern Olympic Games in 1894. The IOC, along with various partners, will host a range of events and activities to inspire people worldwide to be more active. Through local and digital initiatives, as well as partnerships with the Abhinav Bindra Foundation and Reliance Foundation, 'Let's Move' has already engaged over 20 million individuals in India.