The 35th National Games are set to take place in Karachi from May 1 to 9, 2025, bringing together 10,000 athletes from across Pakistan for an intense competition featuring 34 sports disciplines. This marks the first time in 18 years that Sindh is hosting this prestigious event, making it a significant moment for Pakistan’s sports landscape.
The decision was confirmed in a high-level meeting chaired by Sindh Sports Minister Sardar Muhammad Baksh Mahar, with key stakeholders, including Pakistan Olympic Association (POA) Secretary Khalid Mahmood, present to finalize the preparations.
Sindh Prepares to Welcome Pakistan’s Top Athletes
The Sindh Olympic Association (SOA), under the leadership of Mahar, is overseeing the event’s organization with the Sindh government’s full support. Officials from various sports federations and associations have been actively involved in planning to ensure a smooth and successful execution of the games.
Sindh Sports Minister Sardar Mahar emphasized the importance of this event, stating that it is not just for Sindh but for the entire nation. He confirmed that invitations have been sent to President Asif Ali Zardari and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif for the opening and closing ceremonies. Additionally, the torch relay will be inaugurated by PPP Chairman Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari and Sindh Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah.
Venues, Security, and Medical Facilities
To accommodate the scale of the National Games, competitions will be held across 21 venues in Karachi. The swimming events will take place at the Karachi Metropolitan Corporation (KMC) swimming pool, with efforts underway to construct a new swimming facility in Sindh.
Ensuring athlete safety is a top priority. Enhanced security measures, including paramedics, will be in place. Dedicated committees for media coverage (print, electronic, and social media) will oversee promotional efforts. Doctors and ambulances will be stationed at all venues, with special hospital arrangements for emergency cases.
Participants and Competitive Spirit
Teams from Sindh, Punjab, Balochistan, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Islamabad, Azad Jammu and Kashmir, and Gilgit-Baltistan will compete in the National Games. Additionally, departmental teams from Pakistan Army, Air Force, Navy, WAPDA, Railways, Police, and the Higher Education Commission will participate.
The event will witness 2,760 provincial athletes, 5,600 departmental athletes, 1,200 technical officials, and 132 traditional athletes, making it one of the largest sporting events in Pakistan.
Reviving Sports in Sindh
The return of the National Games to Sindh after nearly two decades is a major boost for sports development in the province. The Sindh government aims to elevate local athletes to international levels by providing better facilities and training opportunities.
With the logistics and security finalized, Karachi is ready to host one of the biggest sporting events in Pakistan’s history. The 35th National Games 2025 promises to be a celebration of talent, teamwork, and sportsmanship, setting the stage for future national and international competitions.
