Ahmedabad, Oct 13:
Union Sports Minister Mansukh Mandaviya on Monday said India was placing sport at the centre of nation-building through investments in sports infrastructure, grassroots participation and the development of young talent.
He was speaking at the inauguration of the BRICS Traditional and Indigenous Sports Demonstration Games in Ahmedabad. The one-day event, designed as a non-competitive platform, focuses on demonstrating traditional sporting practices and encouraging cultural exchange. India’s disciplines at the event include Mallakhamb, Yogasana and Kalaripayattu.
Mandaviya said India was following a comprehensive approach covering grassroots participation, talent identification, coaching, sports science, infrastructure, athlete welfare and international exposure to build a sustainable sporting ecosystem.
He highlighted the government’s allocation of USD 3.76 billion, or more than ₹36,400 crore, for the Khelo India initiative. The programme is aimed at upgrading sports infrastructure across the country and supporting the training of young athletes.
The minister said the objective was not merely to create world-class facilities for current athletes but also to establish a lasting sporting legacy for future generations. He described sport as an instrument for youth development, social inclusion, cultural understanding and international cooperation.
Mandaviya also highlighted the international relevance of indigenous sports. Mallakhamb combines aerial gymnastics with physical control while requiring relatively little infrastructure, while Kalaripayattu demonstrates the physical discipline and movement techniques associated with one of the world’s oldest martial arts.
He cited kabaddi as an example of a traditional sport that has moved from rural playing fields to commercial broadcasting while retaining its cultural identity. Kabaddi is also a medal event at the Asian Games.
Ten other BRICS nations, including China, Russia, Brazil and South Africa, are participating in the event. Mandaviya proposed creating a repository of traditional and indigenous sports among BRICS countries to document their histories, rules, equipment and playing requirements.
India is also bidding to host the 2036 Olympic Games in Ahmedabad. The city is scheduled to host the 2029 World Police and Fire Games and the 2030 Commonwealth Games.