Khelo India Programme

✦Key Features

• 4,400+ Khelo India athletes identified; ₹6.4 lakh annual scholarship each
• Khelo India Games: University Games (2020+), Youth Games (U18, annual since 2018), Winter Games (2020), Para Games
• 3,600+ Khelo India Sports Infrastructure created/upgraded across India
• Khelo India Centres (KIC): 1,089 centres in schools/colleges for sports coaching
• Budget FY2025-26: ₹998 crore; Target Olympic medals at Paris 2024, LA 2028
• Sports sciences support: National Sports Science & Research Board
• Integration with SAI (Sports Authority of India) centres

✓Eligibility Criteria

• Talented players identified in priority sports disciplines by the High-Powered Committee.
• School and college students within the age group of 8 to 18 years.
• Athletes must be Indian citizens and demonstrate exceptional performance at national or state levels.
• Participation is open to athletes from all socio-economic backgrounds across India.

★Benefits

• Annual financial assistance of INR 5 lakhs per annum for a period of 8 years for identified talents.
• Access to specialized coaching at accredited academies and high-performance centers.
• Comprehensive medical insurance coverage and regular health assessments.
• Support for participation in international competitions and advanced sports science training.

▶Application Process

• Create a profile on the official Khelo India National Talent Search Portal.
• Fill out the comprehensive application form including sports achievements and personal details.
• Upload digital copies of required certificates and performance proofs for verification.
• Participate in regional or national level talent identification trials conducted by the Ministry.

₹ Budget Allocation

998

Funding Ratio (Centre:State): 100% Central Sector Scheme.

Historical Context

Introduced in 2018 by merging 'Rajiv Gandhi Khel Abhiyan', 'Urban Sports Infrastructure Scheme', and 'National Sports Talent Search System'.