Prime Minister Narendra Modi recently highlighted the transformative potential of the newly introduced ‘Khelo Bharat Niti 2025’, a national sports policy designed to revolutionize India’s sporting ecosystem. In his ‘Mann Ki Baat’ address, PM Modi emphasized that the policy prioritizes villages, the underprivileged, and female athletes while integrating sports into daily life at schools and colleges. The initiative also aims to support sports-related startups in management and manufacturing, creating new opportunities for innovation in the sector.
The policy, approved by the Union Cabinet earlier in July, replaces the outdated 2001 National Sports Policy. It sets an ambitious vision for India to emerge as a global sporting powerhouse, with a particular focus on the 2036 Olympic Games. The roadmap is built on extensive consultations with central ministries, state governments, sports federations, athletes, and experts.
Five key pillars form the foundation of Khelo Bharat Niti 2025. The first is excellence on the global stage, which includes grassroots talent identification, infrastructure development, and elite athlete support systems. The policy also seeks to enhance sports science, coaching, and governance standards within national federations.
On the economic front, the policy aims to boost sports tourism and attract major international events to India. It also encourages sports manufacturing startups and private sector engagement through partnerships and CSR initiatives. PM Modi stressed that self-reliance in sports equipment—like locally made bats and rackets—will further strengthen India’s mission.
Highlighting recent achievements, PM Modi applauded India’s historic performance at the 2025 World Police and Fire Games in the USA, where the contingent bagged 588 medals, securing third place overall. With India set to host the 2029 edition in Ahmedabad, the Prime Minister expressed confidence that the country would showcase its hospitality and sporting culture to the world.
The policy’s enthusiastic reception among young athletes and parents signals a growing momentum for sports in India. By fostering a strong sports ecosystem, Khelo Bharat Niti 2025 could well be the game-changer that elevates India to sporting superpower status.