Khelo India centres inaugurated in 30 Odisha districts, to foster sports culture at grassroots level

In a landmark move aimed at fostering sports culture at the grassroots level, Khelo India Centres have been formally inaugurated across all 30 districts of Odisha. This ambitious initiative, launched under the joint collaboration of the Central Government, the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports, and the Government of Odisha, is set to revolutionize the state’s approach towards nurturing young sporting talent.

Guidelines

A total of 30 government schools—one from each district—have been selected for the establishment of these sports centres. Each centre will receive an annual financial assistance of Rs 5 lakh to ensure the smooth functioning of operations, training, and maintenance of basic infrastructure. The initiative is part of the broader vision of the Khelo India programme, which seeks to strengthen India’s grassroots sports infrastructure and provide formal training pathways for future champions.

Odisha Sports and Youth Services Minister Suryabanshi Suraj addressed the press during the inauguration on Sunday, stating, “This is not just an infrastructure project, but a mission to identify and nurture the next generation of sportspersons from our villages, towns, and cities. These centres will give equal opportunities to children from remote regions who otherwise have limited access to professional sports coaching.”

According to the Minister, the Khelo India centres have been inaugurated at schools in 30 districts of Odisha. Rs 5 lakh each will be spent annually for each centre. The appointment of coaches will be transparent and from concerned discipline and past champions. I am hopeful that the centres will play a key role for students who want to make career in sports. The centres will act as training centres at grassroots level

Significantly, local retired sportspersons will be engaged as trainers at these centres, utilizing their experience and knowledge while providing them livelihood opportunities. This decision has been welcomed by the sporting community as a step towards sustainable development and sports welfare.

These grassroots centres will primarily focus on Olympic and priority sports, ensuring children receive expert training in disciplines where India has strong international potential. Over time, schools are expected to transform into regional hubs of athletic excellence, creating a feeder system for district, state, and national teams.

The centres will also help instil discipline, team spirit, and a competitive edge among young students. Special outreach will be made to identify talent from marginalized communities and tribal belts to make the initiative truly inclusive.
Odisha, known for producing national-level athletes in sports like hockey and athletics, has once again shown its commitment to building a sporting state. 

With the Khelo India Centres now functional, the state hopes to produce many more champions who can proudly represent the country at international platforms, including the Olympics.