Cabinet approves revamped Khelo India Scheme and enhanced Assistance to National Sports Federations (ANSFs)

Why in news

The Union Cabinet has approved an expanded Khelo India Scheme and enhanced Assistance to National Sports Federations (ANSFs) with a combined outlay of Rs.36,441 crore for the period 2026-27 to 2030-31. This is considered the country's most ambitious sports development programme since Independence.

Exam relevance

GS2, GS1 · Governance, Society, Economy · Prelims · Mains

Key facts

1. The Union Cabinet approved an expanded Khelo India Scheme and enhanced Assistance to National Sports Federations (ANSFs).
2. The combined outlay for the scheme is Rs.36,441 crore.
3. The scheme will be implemented for the period 2026-27 to 2030-31.
4. This is described as the country's most ambitious sports development programme since Independence.
5. The approved outlay is nearly eight times that of the previous Khelo India Scheme.
6. The revamped scheme aims to create a seamless pathway for talented youth from grassroots to the Olympic podium.
7. It seeks to ensure no sporting talent is left undiscovered due to geography, economic background, or lack of opportunity.
8. The scheme integrates sports with education, fitness, technology, and high-performance training.
9. It is aligned with the vision of Khelo Bharat Niti 2025 and the National Education Policy 2020.

Prelims pointers

• The Union Cabinet has approved the revamped Khelo India Scheme and enhanced Assistance to National Sports Federations (ANSFs).
• The combined outlay for the scheme is Rs.36,441 crore for the period 2026-27 to 2030-31.
• The scheme aims to create a seamless pathway for talented youth from grassroots to the Olympic podium.
• It seeks to integrate sports with education, fitness, technology, and high-performance training.
• The scheme is aligned with Khelo Bharat Niti 2025 and the National Education Policy 2020.

Mains practice question

Discuss the significance of the revamped Khelo India Scheme and enhanced Assistance to National Sports Federations (ANSFs) in fostering a sporting culture and achieving global sporting excellence in India. What are the key objectives and potential challenges of such an ambitious programme?

Static linkage

The Khelo India Scheme is a government initiative aimed at promoting sports at the grassroots level in India. Its expansion and enhancement reflect a broader governmental focus on sports development, aligning with national policies like the National Education Policy 2020 and potentially other sports-related visions.

Significance

The revamped Khelo India Scheme and enhanced ANSFs represent a significant governmental push towards sports development, aiming to identify and nurture talent across the country. By integrating sports with education and providing a clear pathway to high-performance training, the scheme has the potential to boost India's sporting achievements on the global stage. The substantial increase in outlay underscores a commitment to sports as a tool for youth development and nation-building, potentially leading to improved physical fitness, discipline, and national pride.