CityLightBuzz: Hyderabad, August 27, 2026: Union Minister G. Kishan Reddy highlighted the Central Government’s initiatives to strengthen India’s sporting ecosystem and encourage young athletes, saying that sports development has become a key priority under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
His remarks came in connection with the nationwide “Khelo India Dialogue – Khel Ki Baat, Pradhan Mantri Modi Ke Saath” programme being organised to mark National Sports Day 2026. The initiative is bringing together young athletes and students across more than 1,500 educational institutions, with a focus on grassroots sports development, youth participation and India’s long-term sporting ambitions.
Focus on Grassroots Sporting Talent. Kishan Reddy said that India has one of the world’s largest youth populations and that greater emphasis is now being placed on identifying sporting talent from the grassroots level.
He said that sports had not received adequate attention in the past, but the situation was changing with increased government support for athletes, training facilities and sporting infrastructure.The broader Khelo India programme is designed to create a pathway for talented youngsters from grassroots facilities to high-performance training and international competition. The recently revamped Khelo India scheme has a combined outlay of ₹36,441 crore for 2026–27 to 2030–31, according to the Prime Minister’s Office. PM Modi’s Support for Athletes
Kishan Reddy highlighted Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s personal engagement with Indian athletes.
He said the Prime Minister regularly interacts with sportspersons representing India at international competitions and encourages them both after victories and defeats.
According to Kishan Reddy, such encouragement helps athletes remain motivated and continue working towards their goals even after setbacks.
Training and Nutritional Support
The Union Minister said the government is providing athletes with support for nutrition, training and high-quality coaching.
He said athletes are being encouraged to access specialised training and coaching opportunities, including training abroad where required.
The objective, he said, is to create an ecosystem in which talented young Indians can receive the support necessary to compete successfully at the highest international level.
India’s 2030 and 2036 Sporting Ambitions
Kishan Reddy also highlighted India’s long-term sporting ambitions.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi has said that India will host the Commonwealth Games in 2030 and is moving forward as a strong contender to host the 2036 Olympic Games.
The Khelo India Dialogue is also placing particular emphasis on identifying and developing talent with the 2036 Olympics in mind, including scientific talent identification and athlete development.
Sports and Education Must Go Together
Kishan Reddy appealed to students, parents, teachers and educational institutions to give sports equal importance alongside academics.He said participation in sports helps young people develop discipline, confidence, teamwork and competitive spirit while also creating opportunities for those who aspire to pursue sports professionally.
The nationwide Khelo India Dialogue is designed to give young people a direct platform to share their ideas on strengthening grassroots sports facilities, coaching opportunities, youth leadership and nation-building.
Kishan Reddy expressed confidence that with collective efforts from the government, educational institutions, families, coaches and young athletes, India can emerge as a leading sporting nation on the global stage.
