Director of Sports & Youth Affairs, Government of Goa, and Executive Director, Sports Authority of Goa (SAG) – Dr. Ajay R. Gaude, led the Goa delegation at the ‘Times of India Sports, Fitness & Infrastructure (SFI) Expo 2026,’ held at Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi, from 30th July to 1st August 2026.
The state delegation showcased Goa’s world-class sports infrastructure, progressive initiatives, and achievements, highlighting Goa’s strong commitment to sports development and excellence on a national platform.
The delegation comprised Summit R., Regional Director, Khelo India State Centre of Excellence; Raju Pavar, Assistant Director, Sports Authority of Goa (SAG); Nilesh Naik, Goa Expo Team Coordinator; and Ravi Dessai and Visha Godkar, who served as officials managing the Goa Pavilion throughout the Expo.
The Goa Pavilion attracted a large number of distinguished visitors, including Union Ministers, State Ministers, Governors, senior government officials, sports administrators, and industry leaders from across the country. Among the prominent dignitaries, who visited the stall were General (Dr.) Vijay Kumar Singh, PVSM, AVSM, YSM (Retd.), Governor of Mizoram, and Raksha Nikhil Khadse, Minister of State for Youth Affairs & Sports, Government of India; Vipul Goyal, Urban Local Bodies cabinet minister from Haryana.
The visitors appreciated Goa’s remarkable progress in sports infrastructure, athlete development endeavour and initiatives aimed at promoting sports across the state. Their visit, along with the presence of several other eminent dignitaries, reflected the growing national recognition of Goa’s efforts in building a vibrant sports ecosystem and strengthening its position as a leading destination for sports excellence, sports tourism, and investment.
The successful participation at the SFI Expo 2026 provided an excellent opportunity to showcase Goa’s achievements, exchange ideas with key stakeholders, and explore future collaborations for the continued growth and development of sports in the state, stated a press release.
