The government on Sunday proposed a major expansion of its grassroots sports initiative with the announcement of a new Khelo India mission, aimed at transforming India’s sports ecosystem over the next decade. Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman unveiled the plan while presenting the Union Budget 2026–27 in the Lok Sabha.
Building on the existing Khelo India programme launched in 2017, the proposed mission will move beyond talent identification to address structural challenges in coaching, training, infrastructure and sports science. Sitharaman said the sports sector offers significant opportunities for employment and skilling, and the new mission will focus on the systematic nurturing of talent across all levels.
Under the mission, an integrated talent development framework will be created, supported by training centres at foundational, intermediate and elite stages. The initiative will prioritise the development of coaches and support staff, greater use of sports science and technology, and the organisation of leagues and competitions to strengthen sporting culture nationwide.
Infrastructure development will be a key pillar, with a focus on improving access to quality training and competition facilities, particularly in non-metropolitan areas. The Finance Minister also highlighted the economic potential of sports, announcing a dedicated initiative to promote domestic manufacturing, research and innovation in sports goods and equipment.
The announcement aligns with recent recommendations by a Sports Ministry-appointed task force led by Pullela Gopichand, which has emphasised the need to build a strong pool of high-quality coaches. The renewed focus on long-term sports development also comes as India prepares to host the Commonwealth Games and bids to host the 2036 Olympic Games, making the Khelo India mission a crucial step towards sustained international sporting success.
