From Grassroots to Global Ambitions
In July 2025, the Indian government unveiled ‘Khelo Bharat Niti’ under the National Sports Policy 2025, positioning the country on a fast track toward making sports a mainstream national priority and a pathway to Olympic success.
Key Objectives & Vision
The policy aims to democratize sports—from village fields to elite arenas—by embedding athletic development within the education system, promoting women’s and grassroots participation, and forging a bid to host the 2036 Olympics.
Major Highlights & Funding
With a historic ₹3,794 cr budget for FY 2025–26—up 131 % since 2014–15—the plan commits ₹1,000 cr to the Khelo India programme, funding over 326 infrastructure projects, 1,045 Khelo India Centers, and support to 2,845 athletes through scholarships, training, and medical care 1.
Structural Reforms & Governance
The policy introduces a Sports Regulatory Board to oversee national sports federations (NSFs) and curtail mismanagement. It emphasizes best-in-class coaching, sports science integration, and public–private funding models to ensure sustainability.
Grassroots & Talent Scouting
Early talent identification via 174 Talent Assessment Centres under the KIRTI initiative will nurture athletes aged 9–18. Community fitness drives, school sports integration under NEP 2020, and diaspora engagement will further broaden the talent pipeline 2.
Expanding Competitive Platforms
The policy consolidates a range of Khelo India events—from Youth, University, Winter, and Para Games to the inaugural 2025 Water Sports Festival in Srinagar and Beach Games in Diu—totaling thousands of participants, enhancing India’s competitive infrastructure 3.
Inclusivity and Social Impact
Emphasizing gender equity, tribal empowerment, disability inclusion, and promotion of traditional sports (through initiatives like Bharatiya Khel), the policy aims to make sports an inclusive tool for social transformation 4.
Economic & Educational Integration
Sports are recognized as drivers of jobs, tourism, and startups. Integration with NEP ensures student-athletes can pursue dual careers. The launch of the National Sports University in Imphal and partnerships with institutions like Canberra bolster this vision 5.
Timeline & Milestones
- 2016–17: Launch of original Khelo India scheme
- 2021: Extension of Khelo India with ₹3,790 cr budget
- July 1, 2025: Cabinet approval of Khelo Bharat Niti
- August 2025: First Water Sports Festival in Srinagar
- November 2025: Rajasthan to host 5th Khelo India University Games 6
Trivia & Quiz Highlights
- India’s non-fossil youth: 65% under age 35
- Khelo India Youth Games have featured 27 sports since 2018
- 2025 Beach Games in Diu included 6 sports, with Manipur crowned champions 7
- Target Olympic Podium Scheme began in 2014 to boost elite performance 8
Conclusion: A Sporting Nation in the Making
Khelo Bharat Niti 2025 represents a paradigm shift—treating sports not as a niche activity but as a national movement integral to education, health, and international prestige. With structured policy, funding, and infrastructure, India is poised to leap into the global sports elite.
Source: Sport Star The Hindu