A Policy Built on Equity and Inclusion
The Khelo Bharat Niti-2025 outlines a comprehensive vision to ensure equitable access to sports infrastructure and opportunities across India. The policy aims to build robust pathways from grassroots to elite levels, with a special focus on Scheduled Castes, Scheduled Tribes, rural talent, women athletes, and other underrepresented groups.
A core objective is to harness sports as a tool for social development and inclusion, enabling wider community participation across age groups and geographies.
Dedicated Facilities and Tailored Programs
To foster greater inclusivity, the policy proposes the establishment of dedicated sports facilities that offer services adapted to the needs of women, persons with disabilities, and economically weaker sections.
Regular sporting leagues designed specifically for these groups will also be organized, ensuring consistent engagement and long-term participation.
Bridging the Rural–Urban Gap
Khelo Bharat Niti-2025 places strong emphasis on narrowing the rural–urban divide by improving access to training, coaching, and quality infrastructure for athletes from all backgrounds.
The policy also encourages integrating sports into school curricula, strengthening community involvement, and forging partnerships to reduce training costs and broaden outreach.
Under the ongoing ASMITA – Sports for Women initiative, special leagues are being held in underserved areas to boost women’s participation.
State Responsibility, Centre’s Support
Since sports is a State subject, the primary responsibility for promoting sports lies with state governments. However, the Central Government supplements these efforts by providing significant financial and technical support.
This includes coaches, equipment, accommodation, sports kits, competition exposure (domestic and international), educational expenses, insurance, contingencies, and travel assistance, all under approved sports promotion schemes.
Strengthening Support Through Khelo India and ANSF
Under the Khelo India program, each Khelo India Athlete (KIA) receives ₹6.28 lakh per year, including a ₹10,000 monthly out-of-pocket allowance, to support training and development.
Additionally, through the Assistance to National Sports Federations (ANSF) scheme, the Centre supports athletes participating in international competitions by funding training camps, equipment, and travel.
Official Statement
The details were shared by the Union Minister of Youth Affairs and Sports, Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya, in a written reply to the Rajya Sabha, highlighting the government’s commitment to building a more inclusive and accessible sporting ecosystem across India.
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