India's Union Cabinet approved a revamped Khelo India Scheme and enhanced support for National Sports Federations with a combined outlay of up to Rs 36,441 crore [1].
This investment represents a significant shift in the nation's approach to athletic development. By scaling up financial resources, the government aims to institutionalize sports culture and create a sustainable pipeline of talent for international competitions.
The financial commitment covers the period from FY 2026-27 to FY 2030-31 [4]. While some reports list the total outlay at Rs 29,000 crore [2], other sources cite the higher figure of Rs 36,441 crore [1]. This represents an eight-times boost compared to previous allocations [5].
The funding arrives as the government seeks to modernize the infrastructure and training available to young athletes. The revamped scheme specifically targets the Assistance to National Sports Federations (ANSF) to ensure that governing bodies have the resources necessary to manage elite athletes, and grassroots programs.
For context, the existing budgetary allocation for the Assistance to National Sports Federations for FY 2026-27 was Rs 425 crore [3]. The new approval significantly expands this capacity to promote a broader sports culture across the country.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi said the expansion reflects the government's commitment to promoting sports culture and providing better opportunities for young athletes [6].
The initiative focuses on identifying talent at a young age and providing the necessary professional coaching, and equipment. By integrating the revamped Khelo India Scheme with the ANSF support, the government intends to bridge the gap between grassroots participation and professional excellence.
“The Union Cabinet approved a revamped Khelo India Scheme and enhanced support for National Sports Federations.”
The scale of this funding indicates a strategic pivot toward sports as a pillar of national development. By committing a multi-year outlay that dwarfs previous budgets, India is attempting to move beyond sporadic success in individual sports toward a systemic, state-funded model of athletic excellence designed to improve its standing in global medal tallies.
