Part of: National Current Affairs · See also: UPSC syllabus · UKPSC syllabus
The Union Cabinet has approved the Khelo India Sports Goods Manufacturing Scheme with an outlay of Rs 1,856.67 crore. Prime Minister Narendra Modi chaired the meeting on 28 October 2026. The scheme will run from 2026 to 2033-34. Notably, the Union Budget 2026-27 had first announced it. So, India aims to cut import dependence and boost exports.
Sports Goods Manufacturing Zones
First, the scheme will set up dedicated Sports Goods Manufacturing Zones (SGMZs). These cluster-based zones will co-locate manufacturers, suppliers, testing and design facilities. Moreover, the zones will draw on the BHAVYA Scheme and NICDC Industrial Parks.
Anchor Investment and Turnover Support
Next, the scheme offers Anchor Investment Support and Turnover Linked Support. Together, these two parts carry Rs 1,130 crore. Anchor support will draw leading domestic and global brands into the zones. Meanwhile, turnover-linked support will reward higher production and capacity expansion. In addition, the scheme will help upgrade existing clusters and MSMEs through common facilities.
Certification, Research and Skills
Further, Rs 105 crore will help firms obtain certifications from International Sports Federations. Also, Centres of Excellence will come up in premier research institutions. Besides, start-ups will get support in line with Startup India. Finally, the Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship will help with industry-aligned skilling. Branding and the Export Promotion Mission will then push Indian goods abroad.
India’s Sports Goods Sector Today
According to NITI Aayog, India exported about $275 million of sports equipment in 2024. However, that gave India only about 0.5% of the global market. Notably, manufacturing stays clustered in legacy hubs such as Jalandhar and Meerut. Also, Invest India says these two cities make about 82% of total production. Sports Minister Mansukh Mandaviya summed up the goal as “India Plays, India Manufactures!”
Link With Khelo Bharat Niti 2025
The scheme aligns with Khelo Bharat Niti 2025, Make in India and Atmanirbhar Bharat. Khelo Bharat Niti replaced the National Sports Policy 2001. Interestingly, one of its five pillars is “Sports for Economic Development”.
Sports Goods Manufacturing Scheme: Key Facts for Revision
- Approved: 28 October 2026, Union Cabinet
- Outlay: Rs 1,856.67 crore, from 2026 to 2033-34
- Anchor and turnover support: Rs 1,130 crore combined
- Certification support: Rs 105 crore
- Legacy hubs: Jalandhar (Punjab) and Meerut (Uttar Pradesh)
Why the Sports Goods Manufacturing Scheme Matters for UPSC and UKPSC
Notably, examiners like questions on new schemes. So, remember the total outlay, the period and the Rs 1,130 crore support. Also, link the scheme with Make in India and export growth. For official updates, also visit the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports. Next, for a related story, read about the revamped Khelo India scheme.
So, are you preparing for the UKPSC Upper PCS 2026 prelims? Then join our UKPSC 2026 Prelims Test Series for regular practice.