The Union Cabinet has approved the Khelo India Sports Goods Manufacturing Scheme with an outlay of ₹1,856.67 crore for the period 2026–27 to 2033–34. The initiative seeks to build a stronger domestic sports-goods industry by encouraging investment, manufacturing, innovation, skill development and exports.
About Khelo India Sports Goods Manufacturing Scheme
The scheme aims to make India a competitive hub for sports-goods production by supporting the sector across its entire value chain. It combines manufacturing incentives with measures for infrastructure development, research, certification, workforce training and market expansion.
The programme will operate from 2026 to 2033–34 and has two broad components: manufacturing incentives and ecosystem-building interventions.
Key Features of Khelo India Sports Goods Manufacturing Scheme
Developing Integrated Manufacturing Zones
Dedicated manufacturing zones will bring manufacturers together with suppliers, testing laboratories, design and prototyping facilities and ancillary industries. These zones will be developed through convergence with the BHAVYA Scheme and NICDC Industrial Parks, creating an integrated production ecosystem.
Attracting Investment and Expanding Production
Around ₹1,130 crore has been earmarked for Anchor Investment Support and Turnover Linked Support. The first component will encourage major domestic and international manufacturers, brands and retailers to establish production facilities, while the second will reward increased output, capacity expansion and sustained growth.
Upgrading Existing Clusters and Supporting MSMEs
Existing sports-goods clusters will receive assistance for modernising common facilities and shared infrastructure. Cost-sharing with States is intended to help MSMEs improve productivity and competitiveness.
Supporting International Certification
The scheme provides ₹105 crore to assist manufacturers in obtaining and renewing certifications issued by relevant International Sports Federations. This can help Indian products meet global standards and enter international markets.
Advancing Research and Start-up Innovation
Centres of Excellence at leading educational and research institutions will work on sports equipment, advanced materials, protective gear and modern manufacturing technologies. Research funding will also be aligned with the Anusandhan National Research Foundation. Eligible DPIIT-registered sports start-ups can receive grants of up to ₹20 lakh.
Developing Industry-Aligned Skills
Skill-development programmes will be undertaken with the Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship and industry partners to create a workforce equipped for emerging manufacturing requirements.
Promoting Indian Sports Goods Globally
Brand-building, outreach and market-development activities will draw on the Export Promotion Mission to increase the global visibility of Indian sports products and expand export opportunities.
Overall, the scheme seeks to transform sports-goods manufacturing into a more integrated, innovative and export-oriented industry while creating opportunities for manufacturers, MSMEs and start-ups.
FAQs - Khelo India Sports Goods Manufacturing Scheme
What is the Khelo India Sports Goods Manufacturing Scheme?
It is an initiative to strengthen India’s sports-goods industry through manufacturing incentives, infrastructure development, innovation, skill training and export promotion.
What is the scheme’s budget and implementation period?
According to the article, the scheme has an outlay of ₹1,856.67 crore for the period 2026–27 to 2033–34.
How will the scheme support manufacturers and MSMEs?
It provides investment and turnover-linked support, develops integrated manufacturing zones and upgrades shared facilities in existing sports-goods clusters.
What assistance is available for sports start-ups?
Eligible DPIIT-registered sports start-ups can receive grants of up to ₹20 lakh. The scheme also supports research through Centres of Excellence and collaboration with research institutions.
How will the scheme promote sports-goods exports?
It supports international certification, brand-building and market-development activities to help Indian manufacturers meet global standards and reach overseas buyers.
