Cabinet Clears ₹36,441 Crore Khelo India Boost to Build India into Global Sports Powerhouse

The Union Cabinet has approved a landmark ₹36,441 crore investment plan to strengthen India’s sports ecosystem and expand the Khelo India programme for the period 2026-27 to 2030-31, marking one of the country’s biggest-ever commitments towards sports development.

The decision, taken under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, aims to create a stronger pipeline of athletes by improving talent identification, training facilities, sports science support and competitive opportunities across the country.

The revamped Khelo India scheme is designed to ensure that young athletes from every region get access to structured support, irrespective of their geographical location or economic background. The initiative seeks to build a seamless journey for athletes — from discovering talent at the grassroots level to competing at international events, including the Olympics.

The newly approved funding is nearly eight times higher than the previous allocation for the Khelo India programme, reflecting the government’s focus on using sports as a tool for youth development, nation-building and global recognition.

A major highlight of the expanded scheme is the introduction of a broader athlete development framework, including support for emerging players alongside existing Khelo India athletes. The move is expected to significantly increase the number of young sportspersons receiving professional coaching, scientific training and long-term mentorship.

The programme will strengthen a nationwide sports network involving National Centres of Excellence, Khelo India Centres and Sports Authority of India training facilities. These institutions will work together to provide world-class coaching, modern infrastructure and advanced sports science facilities.

The initiative will also focus on strengthening domestic competitions by supporting school-level, university, regional and sport-specific tournaments, providing athletes with more opportunities to gain competitive experience.

Special attention has been given to expanding participation among women athletes, para-athletes and tribal communities, ensuring wider representation in Indian sports. The scheme will also support the organisation of national-level competitions and major international sporting events in the country.

The government said the expanded Khelo India programme is not merely a sports initiative but a national movement aimed at empowering young Indians, building confidence and creating a pathway for future champions.

With this investment, India aims to establish a globally competitive sports ecosystem capable of producing athletes who can excel on the world stage and strengthen the country’s position among leading sporting nations.