Srinagar, Mar 23 (KNO): The Government of India (GoI) on Monday said that several sports promotion schemes are being implemented across the country, including the Union Territory of Ladakh, to support talented athletes, particularly those from economically weaker backgrounds.
Replying to a starred question in Lok Sabha, the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports, as reported by the news agency—Kashmir News Observer (KNO), said that existing schemes under the Sports Authority of India (SAI) are already providing comprehensive assistance to athletes, including those from remote and high-altitude regions like Ladakh.
The government acknowledged the unique geographical and financial challenges faced by athletes in Ladakh and said special provisions have been made to ensure they are not deprived of opportunities due to economic constraints.
Under the SAI Training Centre (STC) scheme, athletes are provided with boarding, lodging, sports kits, medical support, insurance coverage and exposure to competitions. At present, around 55 athletes are undergoing residential training at STC Kargil.
The government further informed that special travel entitlements are extended to athletes from Ladakh to facilitate their participation in competitions outside the region.
Highlighting grassroots development, the government said that under the Khelo India Scheme, the standard norm of one centre per district has been relaxed to five centres per district for Ladakh to address accessibility issues. Currently, three Khelo India Centres are operational in Ladakh, with 108 athletes training in disciplines such as archery, athletics, football, table tennis and ice hockey.
The Ministry also said that financial assistance is provided through National Sports Federations for training, equipment, international exposure, and coaching support.
Additionally, under the Pandit Deendayal Upadhyay National Welfare Programme for Sportspersons, financial assistance of up to Rs 2.5 lakh is extended to athletes from economically weaker backgrounds for training, equipment and medical needs.
The government added that selected Khelo India Athletes receive an annual support of Rs 6.28 lakh, which includes coaching, diet, equipment and a monthly out-of-pocket allowance of Rs 10,000.
To further promote winter and high-altitude sports, six editions of Khelo India Winter Games have been organised in Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh, witnessing participation of over 5,200 athletes.
The government reiterated its commitment to ensuring that sporting opportunities are based on merit and not limited by financial constraints, stating that a transparent talent identification system is in place to scout and nurture athletes from regions like Ladakh—(KNO)