Khelo India Goes Mission-Mode: A Decade-Long Play to Build a Sporting Nation

The elevation of Khelo India from a scheme to a 10-year Mission-mode national project (2026–2036) marks a defining moment for Indian sport, signalling a decisive shift from fragmented interventions to a long-term, outcome-driven ecosystem focused on grassroots development, elite performance, employment generation, and global competitiveness.

Reacting to the budget announcement, Siddhartha Upadhyay, Founder & President, STAIRS Foundation, said: With Khelo India being elevated into a decade-long national Mission, this aligns seamlessly with STAIRS’ ‘One India One Goal’ vision, which has been operational on the ground for years. Through One India One Goal, STAIRS has already built and tested a grassroots-to-national pathway across more than 26 states and 500+ districts, supported by a strong network of local coordinators, competitions, and talent-tracking systems. What Khelo India Mission brings is continuity, scale, and institutional backing, exactly what Indian sport has always needed.

Highlighting the leadership significance of the announcement, Upadhyay said:“This is not just a budgetary decision; it is a leadership statement. A 10-year Mission sends a clear message, to athletes, parents, coaches, states, and institutions, that India is serious about moving from participation to podium finishes, and from isolated success stories to a sustainable sporting economy.”STAIRS sees the Mission as an opportunity to deepen collaboration with State Governments, State Olympic Associations, and institutions, particularly at the district and block levels.