What is Khelo India Talent Development Scheme

The scheme was introduced by Ministry of Sports and Youth affairs to revive sports culture in India at grass-root level. Its objective is to build strong framework for all sports played in our country and establish India as great sporting nation. It aims to help scout young talent from schools in various disciplines and groom them as future sports champions. Under it, talented players are identified in priority sports disciplines at various levels by High-Powered Committed and each selected player is provided annual financial assistance of Rs. 5 lakh for 8 years.

Sports Authority of India (SAI) under Union Ministry of Sports and Youth Affairs has cleared 734 athletes for the scholarship under the Khelo India Talent Development Scheme. They were selected High Powered Committee of SAI. Through this programme, the athletes will get training at government-accredited residential academies. They will be provided with annual stipend of Rs. 1,20,000 on quarterly basis to meet their out of pocket expenses, treatment of injuries and other expenses.

Sports academies

The High Powered Committee for the first time also has accredited various private, state and SAI academies to create strong ecosystem for nurturing talent. It includes 21 non-SAI academies as well. The rationale behind it is to develop more such academies so that young athletes can get access to best training without having to travel long distances.