India has set its sights on becoming a global sporting powerhouse, with the ambitious goal of ranking among the top 10 sporting nations in the world. Union Minister of Youth Affairs and Sports, Mansukh Mandaviya, has outlined a comprehensive strategy to achieve this target, emphasizing athlete-centric approaches, grassroots development, and strategic policy changes.
Mandaviya, who assumed his role on June 11, 2024, has been a vocal advocate for transforming India's sports ecosystem. He envisions a future where the Indian flag is raised proudly at every international sporting event, fueled by a nationwide passion for sports.
Key Initiatives and Strategies
Long-Term Vision: The government has developed a 10-year and a 25-year plan, aligning with Prime Minister Modi's vision of a developed India. These plans include specific policy changes designed to support the growth and development of the sports sector. By 2047, the centenary of India's independence, the aim is to be among the top five sporting nations.
Athlete-Centric Approach: Mandaviya has stressed the importance of placing athletes at the heart of every decision-making process. This includes providing them with the best possible training, resources, and opportunities to excel.
Grassroots Development: Schemes like Khelo India aim to revive sports culture at the grassroots level by creating a strong framework for all sports played in the country. This involves developing playfields, community coaching, and competitions at the school and university levels, including rural and indigenous sports. As of June 2025, the Khelo India program included the establishment of 1,045 Khelo India Centres (KICs) for grassroots training and support.
Talent Identification and Nurturing: Early identification of talent and systematic nurturing are crucial components of the plan. The KIRTI program, a nationwide initiative, identifies and nurtures sporting talent among children aged 9 to 18 using Talent Assessment Centres (TACs) across the country. As of June 2025, there are 174 TACs in the country.
Support for Elite Athletes: The Target Olympic Podium Scheme (TOPS) provides specialized training and support to athletes with medal-winning potential. This scheme offers financial assistance for customized training at world-class facilities.
Infrastructure Development: The government is investing in upgrading existing sports infrastructure and creating new facilities. This includes the establishment of sports academies and centers of excellence.
Promoting Inclusivity: Initiatives are being taken to promote inclusiveness through sports, including sports for persons with disabilities and women. The Sports Governance Bill, passed to promote transparency and accountability, ensures athletes' primacy, women's representation, and opportunities for differently-abled athletes.
Financial Investment: There has been a substantial increase in the budget allocated to the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports, with a significant portion dedicated to central sector schemes like the Khelo India Programme.
Reforms and Policy Changes
Mandaviya has highlighted the introduction and assent of key bills, including the National Sports Governance Bill and the National Anti-Doping (Amendment) Bill, as crucial reforms. These reforms aim to build a better sports ecosystem, promote transparency, and ensure fair play.
The Path Ahead
The vision is not only to achieve excellence in sports but also to transform it into a public movement, where every citizen feels connected and contributes to India's sporting success. By focusing on grassroots development, elite athlete support, infrastructure improvements, and good governance, India aims to steadily climb the ranks and secure its place among the world's top sporting nations. The ongoing efforts are geared towards not just winning medals but also fostering a sports culture that promotes health, well-being, and national pride.
