States to receive share in revamped Khelo India sports infrastructure fund

The Story in Brief

The central government has revised the funding pattern of the Khelo India Scheme and set aside a ₹565 crore component for states to share the cost of sports infrastructure projects under the five‑year plan. The union cabinet approved a ₹29,054 crore outlay for Khelo India and ₹7,387 crore for the Assistance to National Sports Federations (ANSF); the Sports Ministry said the central share is ₹28,489 crore and the state share is ₹565 crore, but did not provide a per‑state breakdown. Under the new ratios the Centre will meet 60% of infrastructure costs in general states with states covering 40%; for North‑Eastern and Himalayan states the Centre will bear 90% and Union Territories will be entirely central‑funded. The outlay is eight times the previous scheme’s funds. There are currently close to 3,000 Khelo India athletes across 22 sports and the ministry hopes to increase that nearly ninefold. ANSF funding will support hosting and preparations for several major events and future Games.

The Indian Opinion

Readers should note that while the change is presented as giving states a role, the figures show the Centre will still provide the overwhelming share of funding; the state component of ₹565 crore is small compared with the central allocation. Some commentary might frame this as a substantive shift of ownership or, conversely, as a token gesture; both interpretations go beyond the published facts because the ministry has not released state‑wise allocations or implementation details. Similarly, noting ANSF support for major events signals ambition, but whether that leads to successful hosting or stronger performances depends on execution by federations, states and organisers-outcomes not settled by the announcement alone.

Original article: States get share in revamped Khelo India Scheme sports infra fund (www.thehindu.com)

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