More than 500 athletes given govt jobs in UP: Yogi Adityanath

In a strong push to reward talent and secure the future of athletes , Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath announced that the state has provided government jobs to over 500 sportspersons , marking a significant shift in how athletes are supported beyond the field.

Speaking at an event in Lucknow, the Chief Minister acknowledged a long-standing gap, athletes who brought medals and pride to the nation often lacked stability and recognition . “If they are playing for the country, the government must offer them a guarantee,” he said, explaining the rationale behind revising the state’s sports policy.

Today, that policy has translated into real opportunities. Sportspersons in Uttar Pradesh are now serving in key roles such as Deputy Superintendents of Police, tehsildars, and sports administrators , ensuring both respect and financial security after their sporting careers.

A notable example is Indian cricketer Deepti Sharma, who was appointed as a DSP in the Uttar Pradesh Police under the sports quota after her standout performances on the international stage. Her recognition, officials said, reflects a broader attempt to inspire young athletes across the state.

Beyond jobs, the government is also investing heavily in infrastructure. With support from the Board of Control for Cricket in India, an international stadium is coming up in Varanasi , while construction is underway in Gorakhpur. Existing facilities in Lucknow and Kanpur are being complemented by plans for another major stadium in Ghaziabad.

The vision, however, goes deeper. Under this year’s budget, the state aims to establish sports colleges in all 18 divisions , each equipped with a Centre of Excellence dedicated to a specific sport, a move designed to nurture talent at the grassroots and produce world-class athletes.

Linking the initiative to national efforts like Khelo India and the Fit India Movement , Adityanath said Uttar Pradesh is aligning itself with a broader transformation in India’s sporting culture, one that values not just victory, but also the journey and security of its players.