The Union Cabinet, chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, has approved the Khelo India Sports Goods Manufacturing Scheme. The scheme carries a total outlay of ₹1,856.67 crore for 2026 to 2033-34. It aims to make India a globally competitive hub for sports goods manufacturing.
Announced in the Union Budget 2026-27, the scheme will promote investment, production, research and technology adoption. It will also support exports and strengthen India’s position in global supply chains.
The initiative aligns with Khelo Bharat Niti 2025, Make in India and Atmanirbhar Bharat. Moreover, it aims to create jobs, reduce import dependence and strengthen domestic manufacturing.
Dedicated Manufacturing Zones to Strengthen Industry Ecosystems
The scheme will develop dedicated Sports Goods Manufacturing Zones (SGMZs). These zones will bring manufacturers, suppliers and supporting businesses together.
They will also include testing facilities, design centres and prototyping units. As a result, manufacturers can access essential services within a shared industrial ecosystem.
The government will develop these zones through existing industrial infrastructure. This includes facilities under the BHAVYA Scheme and NICDC Industrial Parks.
This cluster-based approach will improve production efficiency and strengthen industry connections. It will also help manufacturers expand their operations.
₹1,130 Crore to Support Investment and Manufacturing Expansion
The scheme aims to attract domestic and international investment. It will also encourage manufacturers to expand their production capacity.
Two major components will drive this growth:
- Anchor Investment Support: This component will encourage leading Indian and global manufacturers, brands and retail chains to set up production facilities in designated manufacturing zones.
- Turnover Linked Support: This component will reward higher production and capacity expansion. It will also encourage manufacturers to maintain long-term growth.
Together, these components carry an outlay of ₹1,130 crore.
The support will encourage private investment and increase domestic value addition. In addition, it will help reduce import dependence and create jobs across the sports goods value chain.
Strengthening MSMEs and Existing Manufacturing Clusters
Micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) play an important role in India’s sports goods industry. Therefore, the scheme will provide targeted support to these businesses.
Manufacturers will receive assistance to upgrade existing sports goods clusters. This support will include common facilities and shared infrastructure.
Consequently, smaller businesses can improve their manufacturing capabilities. These improvements will also strengthen established production centres.
Support for International Quality Certification
Product quality plays a key role in global market competition. To address this need, the scheme has allocated ₹105 crore for international certification.
Manufacturers can use this support to obtain and renew certifications from International Sports Federations.
These certifications will help Indian companies meet global quality and performance standards. Furthermore, they will improve product credibility and open access to international markets.
Research, Technology and Innovation in Sports Manufacturing
The scheme also focuses on research, product design and innovation. It will support the establishment of Centres of Excellence in leading educational and research institutions.
These centres will focus on several key areas, including:
- Sports equipment development
- Advanced material sciences
- Protective gear
- Advanced manufacturing technologies
Additionally, the scheme will encourage research and development through the Anusandhan National Research Foundation.
Start-ups will also receive dedicated support under the Startup India initiative. This assistance will help them develop, test and validate new products and technologies. It will also support the commercialisation of innovative manufacturing processes.
Skill Development to Meet Industry Requirements
India’s sports goods industry needs a skilled workforce to support its growth. Accordingly, the scheme will promote skill development based on industry requirements.
The government will work with the Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship. It will also collaborate with relevant industry stakeholders.
These partnerships will help workers develop the skills needed for modern manufacturing. As a result, the industry can meet its growing demand for skilled manpower.
Expanding India’s Presence in International Markets
The scheme aims to increase the global visibility of Indian sports goods. To achieve this, it will support branding, outreach and market development activities.
The government will also leverage the Export Promotion Mission. These efforts will help Indian manufacturers improve market access and reach more international buyers.
Moreover, stronger export promotion can create new opportunities for Indian sports goods companies in global markets.
Supporting India’s Sporting Ambitions
The scheme will also support India’s growing sporting ecosystem. High-quality and internationally certified sports goods can meet the needs of athletes and sports development programmes.
At the same time, better manufacturing facilities and new technologies will support initiatives such as Khelo India and Fit India.
Overall, the ₹1,856.67 crore scheme aims to strengthen India’s sports goods manufacturing industry. It will support investment, MSMEs, research, quality certification and exports.
These efforts will create opportunities for manufacturers and workers across the value chain. They will also strengthen India’s position in global sports goods markets.
The initiative supports the broader vision of Atmanirbhar Bharat and Viksit Bharat@2047.