Sindh Government Approves Annual Sports Calendar for 2025-26
Sports Correspondent: Imran Sohail
The Sindh government has approved its Annual Sports Calendar for the 2025-26 financial year, featuring a diverse schedule of provincial, traditional, inclusive, and community sporting events across the province.
Officials say the initiative is aimed at encouraging sports participation, supporting emerging athletes, and promoting healthy recreational activities.
Major Events Scheduled Across Sindh
According to Sindh Sports Minister Sardar Muhammad Bakhsh Mahar, the 19th Sindh Games will be held in Sukkur in November, while Shaheed Benazirabad will host both the Sindh Pink Games and Special Games in October.
Other major events included in the calendar are:
- Esports Championship in Karachi – November
- Sindh Beach Games – December
- Thar Jeep Rally – February 2027
- Lyari Sports Festival – April 2027
- Pink Football Championship – May 2027
- Donkey Cart Race in Karachi – June 2027
Traditional Sports to Continue
The annual calendar also highlights several traditional sporting events across the province.
These include:
- All Pakistan Malakhra Competitions in Bhit Shah during the Urs of Shah Abdul Latif Bhittai.
- A Mega Malakhra Event in Sachal Goth, Karachi, scheduled for October.
- The Kohistan Bullock Cart Race in Thatta during November.
- The Iqbal Day Sports Festival and a Chess Championship in Hyderabad.
- Malakhra and Kabaddi tournaments in Shaheed Benazirabad during the Urs of Sakhi Jam Datar.
- Another All Pakistan Malakhra Competition in February 2027 during the Urs of Lal Shahbaz Qalandar.
Inclusive Sports Activities
The Sports Department has also expanded the calendar to include events designed for a wider range of participants, including:
- Persons with disabilities
- Transgender athletes
- University students
- Prison inmates
Officials said the goal is to encourage greater participation in sports across different segments of society.
Community Sports Programs
The calendar also includes competitions in several traditional and community sports, including:
- Malakhra
- Kabaddi
- Kodi Kodi
- Shooting Ball
In addition, Street Children Games will feature activities such as:
- Football
- Cricket
- Gilli Danda
- Tug-of-War
Support for Sports Associations
The Sindh government has also announced plans to provide financial assistance to various sports associations to support athlete development and the organization of sporting events.
According to the provincial sports minister, the annual sports calendar is intended to strengthen grassroots sports, identify emerging talent, and help athletes represent Sindh and Pakistan in national and international competitions.
