Union Cabinet Approves Revamped Khelo India Scheme with ₹36,441 Crore Outlay

The Union Cabinet, chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, has approved an expanded Khelo India Scheme alongside enhanced Assistance to National Sports Federations (ANSFs) with an allocated budget of ₹36,441 crore spanning from 2026–27 to 2030–31. This landmark decision represents the largest financial commitment to sports infrastructure and athlete development in the nation's history, reflecting an outlay nearly eight times greater than the previous iteration of the scheme. The revamped program establishes a comprehensive multi-tier athlete development framework designed to identify and nurture young talent across India. Under the initiative, the government aims to bridge regional disparities by integrating sports with the National Education Policy 2020 and establishing specialized training ecosystems, including National Centres of Excellence and regional Khelo India Centres. The scheme provides structured pathways for scientific coaching, financial stipends, and international exposure for emerging athletes. In addition to grassroots development, the expanded funding is designed to align with India’s broader long-term sporting objectives. These include preparing elite competitors for the upcoming 2030 Commonwealth Games and backing India's official bid to host the 2036 Olympic and Paralympic Games. By strengthening sports science, coaching standards, and federation administration, the government seeks to position India as a global sporting powerhouse over the coming decade.