SAARC nations namely Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Maldives, Nepal, Pakistan and Sri Lanka will be participating in the games. SAARC nations comprise 21% of the world's total population and around 9.12% of Global economy. SAARC is a platform for the people of South Asia to work together in a spirit of friendship, trust and understanding so as to achieve lasting peace and prosperity of its member nations. South Asian Games play a vital role in achieving this objective.
228 events in 23 Sports disciplines will be played during the games. Total No. of medals for medal tally – 228 Gold, 228 Silver and 308 Bronze medals. 16 Sports Disciplines will be played at Guwahati – Athletics, Badminton, Basketball, Volleyball, Swimming, Triathlon, Hockey, Weightlifting, Wrestling, Squash, Shooting, Kho Kho, Kabaddi, Handball, Cycling and Tennis. 6 Sports Disciplines will be played at Shillong – Archery, Boxing, Judo, Table Tennis, Taekwondo, Wushu. Men Football will be played at Guwahati and women football at Shillong.
Entries by number have been received for 1505 Men and 1167 women athletes, 635 NOC & Team Officials and 200 International Technical officials – 200. Around 100 International Media are expected to cover the event on the spot.
India says it is highly thankful to Srilanka for having confirmed participation in all 23 disciplines along with Nepal.
The logo symbolizes peace, progress & prosperity in the region. It consists of 8 petals representing the 8 countries participating in the Games. Colors of petals are from the flags of the 8 countries. Mascot “TIKHOR” a Baby rhino is Sharp, Naughty, Sporty & Modern. He is a Motivator, friend and messenger of peace, progress & prosperity. The theme song is ‘Ei Prithibi Ekhon Krirangon, Krira Hol Shantir Prangon’ sung by the world famous musician late Dr. Bhupen Hazarika. It means that the whole world is a playground and sports is a playground of peace. The song is being translated in official languages of all SAARC nations and will be sung in each of these languages.
A glittering opening ceremony has been planned for 5th February 2016 in Guwahati and a separate ceremony will also be held in Shillong on 6th February 2016 for athletes participating in Shillong.
