New Delhi, July 25: In a significant boost for grassroots sports development, the Union Budget for the fiscal year 2024-25 has once again earmarked Khelo India as the primary recipient of funds within the sports sector. Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman announced an allocation of ā¹900 crore for Khelo India, up from the previous year’s revised figure of ā¹880 crore.
The increased investment underscores the governmentās ongoing commitment to fostering sports talent across India. Since its inception, Khelo India has grown to encompass various initiatives, including the Khelo India Youth Games, Khelo India University Games, Khelo India Winter Games, and the Khelo India Para Games. This expansion aims to cater to a diverse range of athletes and sporting disciplines.
The overall budget for the Sports Ministry has risen marginally to ā¹3,442.32 crore from ā¹3,396.96 crore in the previous fiscal year, reflecting a modest increase of ā¹45.36 crore. Despite this slight rise, the lionās share continues to be directed towards Khelo India, which has seen a substantial boost from an initial allocation of ā¹596.39 crore in 2022-23 to the current ā¹900 crore.
In addition to the Khelo India funding, the budget also provides a ā¹15 crore increase for National Sports Federations (NSFs), bringing their total allocation to ā¹340 crore. The Sports Authority of India (SAI), which oversees stadia maintenance and the Target Olympic Podium Scheme (TOPS), will see its budget rise by ā¹26.83 crore to ā¹822.60 crore.
Other notable increases include a slight boost for the National Anti-Doping Agency (NADA) and the National Dope Testing Laboratory (NDTL), ensuring continued support for anti-doping measures in Indian sports.
This allocation highlights the government’s focus on strengthening the infrastructure and support systems necessary for nurturing future sporting talents, with a view towards upcoming international competitions and fostering a robust sporting culture in the country.