Introduction
“The image of a country is not just about economic and military strength. The soft face of a country also makes a difference. Sports is one such soft power which can capture the world’s attention to India,” stated Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, emphasizing the significant role of sports in shaping national identity and global perception. In a nation as diverse and populous as India, the potential for sporting excellence is immense; however, this potential has historically been underutilized due to a lack of cohesive policies and adequate infrastructure.
To address these challenges, the Khelo India Scheme was introduced in 2016, aiming to revitalize the sports culture in the country and establish a robust framework for nurturing talent from the grassroots level. India's demographic advantage, characterized by a youthful population, presents a unique opportunity to harness sporting talent. Yet, for decades, the policies governing sports in India have been sporadic and often disconnected from the rapidly evolving international sports landscape, hindering the ability of Indian athletes to compete effectively on the global stage.
Recognizing the transformative power of sports, the Khelo India Scheme encompasses a wide array of components designed to create a sustainable sports ecosystem. It focuses on the development of sports infrastructure, the establishment of Khelo India Centres, and the promotion of sports among various demographics, including women and individuals with disabilities. By fostering a culture of sportsmanship and inclusivity, the scheme aims to bridge the gap between aspiring athletes and the resources they need to succeed. Furthermore, the initiative seeks to instill a sense of national pride and unity, as success in sports has the power to transcend social and cultural barriers, bringing people together in celebration of shared achievements.
In recent years, India has witnessed a gradual but significant shift in its approach to sports development. The Khelo India Scheme has been pivotal in this transformation, with substantial investments made in sports infrastructure and talent identification programmes. Numerous projects have been sanctioned under the scheme, enhancing the availability of sports facilities across the country and ensuring that aspiring athletes have access to the necessary resources for training and competition. This investment in infrastructure is not merely about constructing buildings; it is about creating environments where talent can flourish and where sports can become an integral part of the community fabric.
Moreover, the Khelo India Scheme emphasizes the importance of coaching and mentorship, recognizing that the guidance of experienced athletes can significantly impact the development of young talent. By engaging past champions as coaches and mentors, the scheme aims to provide aspiring athletes with the knowledge, skills, and motivation needed to excel in their chosen sports. This holistic approach to sports development is essential for nurturing a new generation of athletes capable of competing at the highest levels, both nationally and internationally.
As India continues to strive for recognition as a sporting superpower, the Khelo India Scheme stands as a testament to the country’s commitment to sports development. By addressing historical shortcomings in sports policy and infrastructure, the scheme aims to create a vibrant sports culture that not only produces champions but also promotes health, well-being, and social cohesion among its citizens. The journey towards achieving these ambitious goals is ongoing, and the impact of the Khelo India Scheme will be felt for generations to come, shaping the future of sports in India and enhancing the nation’s standing on the global stage.
Literature Review
The foundation of any research work rested upon a comprehensive understanding of existing literature. In the context of the Khelo India Scheme, various studies and reports were undertaken to evaluate its impact and effectiveness in promoting sports in India. This literature review aimed to identify, evaluate, and interpret the work produced by researchers and scholars on the subject matter, thereby laying the groundwork for the contributions of this dissertation.
The Gazette Notification No. 29-1/MYAS/MDSD/2017, issued by the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports on October 9, 2017, announced the revamp of the Khelo India Scheme. This document outlined the scheme's objectives, which included the development of sports infrastructure, community coaching, and the establishment of a strong competition structure at various levels. It recognized the need for promoting sports with a focus on infrastructure and training young talent for excellence in sports, highlighting areas that warranted further study.
A study report by the Indian Institute of Public Administration in May 2018 provided an independent evaluation of the Khelo India Scheme. This evaluation assessed whether the scheme was achieving its intended objectives and whether it needed to be continued in its current form or modified. The report highlighted various gaps for improvement, many of which were addressed in the revised scheme. The ongoing implementation of the Khelo India Scheme subsequently focused on the creation of sports infrastructure and the establishment of Khelo India Centres.
The Evaluation Study of the Khelo India Scheme conducted by the Society for Economic Development and Environmental Management (SEDEM) in June 2020 contributed to a better understanding of the scheme's functioning. This study offered recommendations for developing a result-oriented sporting environment in the country. It emphasized the need for reducing and merging verticals of the scheme to make it more focused on youth engagement. However, it did not delve deeply into the specifics of sports infrastructure, indicating a gap in the literature that this study aimed to address.
The Gazette Notification No. 40-1/MYAS/MDSD/2020, released on March 4, 2022, announced the continuation of the Khelo India Scheme from 2021-22 to 2025-26, with an outlay of ₹3,165.50 crore. This notification retained the basic objectives and structure of the scheme while rationalizing its components. The operational guidelines issued on December 14, 2022, provided detailed instructions for the implementation of the revised Khelo India Scheme, further emphasizing the importance of sports infrastructure and community engagement.
A report titled "Creating Intellectual Heritage – Development, Knowledge Resource and Making New India," prepared by the Central University of Himachal Pradesh and the Lakshmibai National Institute of Physical Education in February 2023, examined the performance and impact of the Khelo India and Fit India programmes. This report highlighted the need for further exploration of the role, types, and scale of sports infrastructure created under the Khelo India Scheme, indicating a gap that this study sought to fill.
Pintu Debnath (2019), underscored the objective of the Khelo India Programme to build a strong framework for all sports played in the country. While it acknowledged the inclusive nature of the scheme, it did not provide a detailed analysis of the support extended by the Centre to States for various components of the scheme.
Anya Bharat Ram and (2019), summarized key observations and recommendations regarding the scheme. This report addressed aspects of administration, fund utilization, talent identification, coaching, and sports infrastructure, providing a comprehensive overview of the challenges and opportunities within the Khelo India Scheme.
In addition, A.K. Shirotriya, (2019) emphasized the necessity of a concrete sports policy to achieve results in international sporting events. The author stressed the importance of organizing regular workshops to interact with stakeholders to refine sports policy, although the Khelo India Scheme itself was not analyzed in detail against the recommendations offered.
Y.K. Kharade, (2019) examined the requirement for advancements in sports infrastructure in India and the hurdles that hindered its development. The study recommended the designation and usage of sports zones, encouraging public-private partnerships (PPPs), and technological upgrades to sports facilities. However, it did not integrate the methods of talent identification and the role of professional training within the sports infrastructure ecosystem.
G. Singh, (2020), highlighted the relevance of the Khelo India Scheme in boosting sports culture in India. The paper described the main focus areas of the programme, emphasizing the significance of a scientific approach to promote sports and train athletes, including psychological preparation and nutrition based on genetic factors. Singh argued that the Khelo India Youth Games serve as a vital platform for young athletes to showcase their skills and gain exposure, which is essential for their development. However, the study was relatively silent on the need for developing infrastructure and the role of this component in preparing for sports competitions, indicating a gap in the literature that this research aims to address.
However, gaps remain in the detailed analysis of sports infrastructure development and the role of Khelo India Centres in promoting sports. This study aimed to build upon the existing literature by providing a thorough examination of these components, thereby contributing to a deeper understanding of the Khelo India Scheme's impact on sports development in India.
Objectives
The primary objective of this study was to evaluate the Khelo India Scheme and its effectiveness in promoting sports development in India, specifically focusing on the creation and upgradation of sports infrastructure and the establishment of Khelo India Centres and sports academies. The study aimed to assess how these components contributed to fostering a sports culture and enhancing participation among various demographics.
To achieve this, the study sought to address the following research questions:
1. What was the scale of sports infrastructure created under the Khelo India Scheme?
2. What types of sports infrastructure were developed, and how did they contribute to promoting sports?
3. How effective were Khelo India Centres and sports academies in increasing participation in sports among different demographics?
4. What challenges existed in the implementation of the Khelo India Scheme, and what strategies could be employed to overcome them?
Methodology
This study employed a mixed-methods approach to evaluate the Khelo India Scheme, combining quantitative and qualitative data to provide a comprehensive analysis of its impact on sports development in India. The rationale behind this study was to capture a holistic view of the scheme's effectiveness by integrating statistical data on sports infrastructure and participation rates with qualitative insights from stakeholders, including athletes, coaches, and administrators. Surveys were distributed to 201 participants, and in-depth interviews were conducted to gather diverse perspectives on the scheme's implementation and outcomes.
Despite the strengths of this approach, the study faced certain limitations. The reliance on self-reported data may have introduced biases, as participants might have provided socially desirable responses. Additionally, the study was geographically focused on specific regions, which may limit the generalizability of the findings to the entire country. Furthermore, the dynamic nature of sports policies and infrastructure development means that the findings may require periodic updates to remain relevant. Nonetheless, the insights gained from this study contribute significantly to understanding the Khelo India Scheme's role in promoting sports in India.
Findings
The findings of this study are organized into two main sections: Quantitative Data Analysis and Qualitative Data Analysis. The quantitative analysis presents statistical data regarding the Khelo India Scheme, while the qualitative analysis employs thematic analysis to interpret insights gathered from participants.
Quantitative Data Analysis
The quantitative data collected from the survey of 201 participants provided valuable insights into the impact of the Khelo India Scheme. The following tables summarize key findings related to sports infrastructure, participation rates, and the establishment of Khelo India Centres.
Table 1: Overview of Sports Infrastructure Development
Table 2: Khelo India Centres and Athlete Participation
Table 3: Distribution of Khelo India Centres by State/UT
The data indicated a significant investment in sports infrastructure under the Khelo India Scheme, with a total of ₹2,974.55 crore allocated for 307 projects across 32 states and union territories. Of these, 185 projects had been completed, demonstrating progress in enhancing sports facilities. The establishment of 1,031 Khelo India Centres has facilitated training for 20,495 athletes, reflecting a positive trend in sports participation at the grassroots level. The average number of athletes per Centre was approximately 19.85, indicating effective utilization of these facilities. The distribution of Khelo India Centres across various states highlighted the scheme's reach, with Maharashtra, Uttar Pradesh, and Tamil Nadu having the highest number of Centres.
Qualitative Data Analysis
1. Enhanced Accessibility to Sports Facilities: Participants consistently highlighted that the establishment of Khelo India Centres significantly improved access to sports facilities, particularly in rural and underserved areas. Many athletes expressed that they now had access to better training environments, which were previously lacking.
2. Community Engagement and Social Cohesion: The Khelo India Scheme was noted for fostering community engagement through sports. Participants reported increased participation in local sports events and activities, which helped build social cohesion and a sense of belonging among community members.
3. Talent Identification and Development: Several respondents emphasized the scheme's role in identifying and nurturing talent. Coaches and administrators noted that the structured training programmes at Khelo India Centres allowed for systematic talent identification, which was crucial for developing future champions.
4. Challenges in Implementation: Despite the positive feedback, participants also identified challenges in the implementation of the Khelo India Scheme. Issues such as inadequate funding for certain projects, the need for better coaching quality, and the underutilization of existing infrastructure were frequently mentioned. These challenges highlighted areas for improvement to maximize the scheme's effectiveness.
5. Awareness and Outreach: Many participants pointed out that while the Khelo India Scheme had made significant strides, there was still a need for greater awareness and outreach efforts. They suggested that more information about the scheme and its benefits should be disseminated to ensure that all potential beneficiaries, especially in remote areas, were aware of the opportunities available to them.
Current State of Sports Infrastructure in Delhi
The Khelo India Scheme has significantly transformed the sports infrastructure landscape in Delhi, positioning the city as a pivotal hub for athletic development in India. As the national capital, Delhi is equipped with several world-class facilities, including the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium, Indira Gandhi Sports Complex, and Major Dhyan Chand National Stadium. These venues not only host national and international competitions but also serve as training grounds for aspiring athletes. The establishment of Khelo India Centres (KICs) throughout the metropolis has further enhanced access to quality training and resources, providing essential support for young athletes to develop their skills.
Despite these advancements, the sports infrastructure in Delhi faces several challenges that hinder its full potential. One of the primary issues is inadequate funding, which affects the maintenance and upgrading of existing facilities. Many sports venues struggle to keep pace with the growing demands of athletes and the community, leading to underutilization of these valuable resources. Additionally, access disparities persist, particularly for marginalized communities, limiting their opportunities to engage in sports and physical activities.
However, the Khelo India Scheme also presents numerous opportunities for improvement. Public-private partnerships can be leveraged to enhance investment in sports infrastructure, facilitating the construction and maintenance of state-of-the-art facilities. Community engagement initiatives are crucial for raising awareness and promoting participation, especially in underserved areas. Furthermore, a focus on inclusivity is essential to ensure that all segments of society, including women and individuals with disabilities, have equitable access to quality sports facilities.
By addressing these challenges and capitalizing on the opportunities presented by the Khelo India Scheme, Delhi can further strengthen its sports infrastructure. This development will not only cultivate a vibrant sports culture but also contribute to the overall well-being of its citizens, fostering a healthier, more active society. As the Khelo India Scheme continues to evolve, its commitment to enhancing sports infrastructure will be pivotal in nurturing talent and positioning India as a formidable force in the global sports arena.
Recommendations
Based on the findings of this study, several recommendations are proposed to enhance the effectiveness of the Khelo India Scheme and improve sports infrastructure in Delhi:
1. Targeted Interventions for Underperforming Areas: Underperforming districts should be designated as Khelo India Priority Zones, where intensified monitoring, additional resources, and tailored remedial programmes will be provided to address specific challenges.
2. Institutionalization of Automated Tracking Systems: An Automated Student Tracking and Feedback System (ASTFS) should be developed to digitize assessments and progress reports, integrating AI-driven analytics to identify gaps and recommend interventions for athletes.
3. Strengthening of Coaching Capacity: The DIKSHA portal should be expanded with modules offering micro-credentials for sports coaching, combining online courses with quarterly in-person workshops to enhance the quality of coaching provided at Khelo India Centres.
4. Enhancement of Digital Infrastructure: Funds should be allocated to equip rural sports facilities with modern technology and resources, ensuring that athletes have access to the latest training tools and methodologies.
5. Introduction of Competitive Accountability Mechanisms: Standardized assessments should be conducted at state and district levels, with public rankings of districts and schools to foster healthy competition and accountability in sports development.
6. Policy Integration and Sustainable Funding: Dedicated budgets for sports development should be mandated in state education plans to ensure sustained funding for infrastructure, training, and monitoring, thereby enhancing the long-term viability of the Khelo India Scheme.
7. Promotion of Inclusivity in Sports: Initiatives should be implemented to ensure that sports facilities are accessible to all, particularly women and individuals with disabilities, fostering a more inclusive sports culture that encourages participation from diverse demographics.
8. Community Engagement Initiatives: Awareness campaigns should be conducted to promote sports participation among local communities, encouraging grassroots involvement and support for athletes, particularly in underserved areas.
9. Continuous Evaluation and Feedback Mechanisms: A robust system for ongoing evaluation and feedback should be established to assess the effectiveness of the Khelo India Scheme, ensuring that resources are allocated efficiently and improvements are made based on stakeholder input.
Conclusion
This study provided a comprehensive evaluation of the Khelo India Scheme, a pivotal initiative aimed at transforming the sports landscape in India. The findings revealed that the scheme has made substantial strides in enhancing sports infrastructure, with a total investment of ₹2,974.55 crore allocated for 307 projects across 32 states and union territories. The establishment of 1,031 Khelo India Centres has facilitated training for over 20,495 athletes, reflecting a positive trend in grassroots sports participation.
Various athletes, coaches, and administrators underscored the scheme's role in identifying and developing talent. Participants expressed that the structured training programmes and improved facilities at Khelo India Centres were instrumental in their athletic development. However, the study also identified several challenges, including inadequate funding for certain projects, the need for enhanced coaching quality, and the necessity for greater awareness and outreach efforts.
In light of these findings, the recommendations outlined above emphasize the importance of addressing the identified challenges to maximize the Khelo India Scheme's effectiveness. By implementing targeted interventions, enhancing coaching capacity, and promoting inclusivity, stakeholders can ensure that the Khelo India Scheme not only meets its objectives but also adapts to the evolving needs of athletes and the sports ecosystem.
Ultimately, the Khelo India Scheme represents a significant step towards positioning India as a global sporting powerhouse. By fostering a culture of sportsmanship and excellence, the scheme has the potential to transform the lives of countless individuals, instilling values of discipline, teamwork, and perseverance. As India continues to invest in its sports infrastructure and talent development, the insights gained from this study will serve as a valuable resource for policymakers, sports administrators, and stakeholders committed to advancing the nation's sporting ambitions. The journey towards achieving sporting excellence is ongoing, and with sustained efforts and strategic enhancements, the Khelo India Scheme can play a crucial role in shaping the future of sports in India.
Bibliography
Government Documents/ Publications
1. The Gazette of India (2017). Implementation Of Revamped “Khelo India – National Programme for Development of Sports”. Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports (Department of Sports) Notification No. 29-1/MYAS/MDSD/2017 dated 09 October 2017, 737-750.
2. The Gazette of India (2022). Continuation of the Scheme of Khelo India–National Programme for Development of Sports. Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports (Department of Sports) Notification No. 40-1/MYAS/MDSD/2020 dated 04 March 2022, 17-31.
3. Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports (2022). Annual Report 2021-22.
4. Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports (Department of Sports) (2017). Operational Guidelines on Playfield Development Component of Khelo India- National Programme for Development of Sports Scheme, F No.49-2/MYAS/MDSD/2017/4684-4748, dated 17 Nov 2017.
5. Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports (Department of Sports) (2018). Operational Guidelines on State Level Khelo India Centres Component of Khelo India- National Programme for Development of Sports Scheme, F No.26-1/MYAS/MDSD/2018, dated 23 Aug 2018.
6. Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports (Department of Sports) (2022). Operational Guidelines of the Components under Revised Khelo India Scheme (2021-22 to 2025-26), J-17011/268/2021-MD-SD, dated 14 Dec 2022.
7. Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports (2023). Khelo India Booklet.
8. Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports (2023). Substantial increase in budget outlay for Khelo India, (Rs. 1000 crore). PIB Delhi, 02 Feb, 2:49 PM, Release ID: 1895711.
9. Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports. Sports Ministry gives go-ahead to open up 143 Khelo India Centres across 7 States in India. PIB Delhi, Release ID: 5-1622187224. Accessed on 12 Sep 2023.
10. Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, Government of India, & Sports Authority of India. (n.d.). Khelo India: (Khelo India, Khelega India Khilega India). Publisher (Sports Authority of India), accessed on 12 Sep 2023.
11. PIB Delhi. (2022, April 24). Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports, Khelo India University Games 2021 Press Information Bureau. https://pib.gov.in/PressReleaseframePage.aspx?PRID=1819642.
12. Press Information Bureau (PIB). (2023, July 23). Union Minister for Youth Affairs and Sports, Anurag Singh Thakur, felicitates Fit India Quiz 2022 State round winners in Mumbai. Retrieved from
https://pib.gov.in/PressReleaseIframePage.aspx?PRID=1941942.
13. ASSOCHAM in association with PwC India (2019). Sports Infrastructure: Transforming the Indian Sports Ecosystem. March 2019.
14. Bhattacharyya, R., Gupta, A., Vats, S., Datskovsky, A., & Bhattacharya, P. (2021). As Tokyo Olympics Approach, a Look at India’s Sporting Potential. The Wire, 25 Jun 2021. https://thewire.in/sport/as-tokyo-olympics-approach-a-look-at-indias-sporting-potential accessed on 12 Sep 2023.
15. Bhattacharyya, R., Gupta, A., Vats, S., Datskovsky, A., & Bhattacharya, P. (2021). Has India Always Had a Strong Sporting Culture? The Wire, 26 Jun 2021. https://thewire.in/sport/has-india-always-had-a-strong-sporting-culture accessed on 12 Sep 2023.
16. Bhattacharyya, R., Gupta, A., Vats, S., Datskovsky, A., & Bhattacharya, P. (2021). The Gaps in India’s Sports Administration and Governance. The Wire, 28 Jun 2021. https://thewire.in/sport/gaps-india-sports-administration-governance accessed on 12 Sep 2023.
17. Bhattacharyya, R., Gupta, A., Vats, S., Datskovsky, A., & Bhattacharya, P. (2021). The Professional Sports League and How it Has Impacted Sports in India. The Wire, 27 Jun 2021. https://thewire.in/sport/the-professional-sports-league-and-how-it-has-impacted-sports-in-india accessed on 12 Sep 2023.
18. Bhattacharyya, R., Gupta, A., Vats, S., Datskovsky, A., & Bhattacharya, P. (2021). A Sporting Culture at the Grassroots Is the Need of Hour. The Wire, 29 Jun 2021. https://thewire.in/sport/india-sports-culture-rural-urban-equity-ngos-support accessed on 12 Sep 2023.
19. Bhatti, A. (2023). The Impact of Coaching and Training Programmes on Athlete’s Development in India | Case Study of Successful Sports Academies. 08 Apr 2023. https://www.kreedon.com/the-impact-of-coaching-and-training-programmes-in-sports-on-athletes-development-in-india accessed on 12 Sep 2023.
20. Bhatti, J. (2022). Schemes for Sports Development in India. 30 Sep 2022. https://www.geeksforgeeks.org/schemes-for-sports-development-in-india accessed on 12 Sep 2023.
21. Debnath, P. (2019). Effect of Khelo India Programme in Spotting Culture and School Children of India. Journal of Advances in Science and Technology, Vol 16, Issue No 1, March 2019, ISSN 2230-9659,
https://www.researchgate.net/publication/353656728. Accessed on 12 Sep 2023.
22. Deshpande, S. (2023). Taking Sports to New Heights: The Finest Sports Infrastructure Company in India. 08 Jun 2023. https://www.kreedon.com/taking-sports-to-new-heights-the-finest-sports-infrastructure-company-in-india accessed on 12 Sep 2023.
23. Kharade, Y.K. (2019). Sports Infrastructure: A Study of Sports Ecosystem in India. Think India (Quarterly Journal), ISSN: 0971-1260, 22(13), 1517-1523.
24. Mahtoliya, K. (2023). Comparing Indian Sports Infrastructure with the Rest of the World. 27 Feb 2023. https://www.kreedon.com/comparing-indian-sports-infrastructure-with-other-countries accessed on 12 Sep 2023.
25. Mahtoliya, K. (2023). Game-Changing Revolution: Unveiling the Remarkable Development of Sports Infrastructure in India. 27 Jun 2023.
26. Parmar, M.S., Sahu, K.K., & Roy, P. (2023). Analysing the impact of Khelo India programme on training and nurturing of talent in northeast region of India. International Journal of Physical Education, Sports and Health, 2023, 10(03), 98-105. DOI No:
https://doi.org/10.22271/kheljournal.2023.v10.i3b.2933 accessed on 12 Sep 2023.
27. Pradeep, B. Overview of Sports Challenges and Policies in India. https://kautilya.org.in/overview-of-sports-challenges-and-policies-in-india accessed on 12 Sep 2023.
28. Ram, A.B. (2019). Standing Committee Report Summary: Khelo India Scheme. PRS Legislative Research, Institute for Policy Research Studies, Dec 24, 2019.
29. Shirotriya, A.K. (2019). Conceptual Framework for Redesigning the Sports Policy of India. International Research Journal of Physical Education, Health Education, and Sports Sciences, 8(1), 27-37.
30. Singh, G. (2020). Khelo India Youth Games: A Springboard for Olympic Gold. University News, 58(09), March 02-08, 2020, 03-08, 26.
31. Singh, G., & Bali, A. (2020). Play India Youth Games (Khelo India): Scheme for Promotion of Sports in India. Indian Journal of Physiotherapy and Occupational Therapy, April-June 2020, Vol. 14, No. 02, 61-66. DOI No: 10.37506/ijpot.v14i2.2609.
32. William, R.R., & Kirubakar, S.G. Sports Infrastructure in India. International Journal of Physiology, Nutrition and Physical Education, 2019; SP1: 42-46.
