New Delhi, February 1, 2026 – The Union Budget 2026–27 placed renewed emphasis on strengthening India’s sports ecosystem, with a targeted push to expand and upgrade infrastructure under the Khelo India programme.
Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman announced enhanced allocations to develop modern stadiums, training centres and grassroots facilities, particularly in tier-II and tier-III cities. The focus is on creating accessible, world-class infrastructure to nurture young talent and broaden participation across disciplines.
Officials said funds will support multi-purpose indoor halls, synthetic tracks, hostels for athletes, and the refurbishment of existing facilities, alongside improved sports science and coaching support. Special attention will be given to school and district-level infrastructure, aligning sports development with education and youth engagement.
The move is expected to strengthen India’s sporting pipeline, boost employment in allied sectors, and help athletes train closer to home. Industry observers say sustained infrastructure investment under Khelo India could be pivotal in building long-term competitive depth and improving India’s performance on the global stage.
