Budget 2026: Nirmala Sitharaman announces Khelo India Mission to develop coaches, training centres

NEW DELHI: The government's flagship Khelo India programme is set for a transformative upgrade following Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman's announcement in the Budget 2026. This initiative, designed to identify and nurture grassroots sporting talent across India, will now focus on developing a robust infrastructure for training and coaching. The Khelo India Mission aims to elevate the sports ecosystem by establishing state-of-the-art training centres nationwide, ensuring aspiring athletes have access to top-tier facilities and guidance. Sitharaman emphasized the critical role of qualified coaches in fostering young talent, highlighting plans to enhance the quality and quantity of coaching staff. The government intends to launch specialized training modules and certification programs to equip coaches with advanced skills and methodologies. This strategic move is expected to create a pool of expert trainers capable of nurturing athletes to compete at international levels, thereby strengthening India's presence in global sports arenas. In addition to infrastructure and coaching, the mission will prioritize inclusivity, ensuring opportunities for athletes from diverse backgrounds. The budget allocates significant resources to support underrepresented regions and communities, aiming to democratize access to sports. By fostering talent through comprehensive support systems, the Khelo India Mission seeks to inspire a new generation of athletes, potentially transforming India's sports landscape in the coming years.

— Authored by Next24 Live