Author: Nishtha Mehrotra | EQMint

Synopsis:

• • The Union Cabinet approved the ₹1,856.67 crore Khelo India Sports Goods Manufacturing Scheme on October 28, 2026, to strengthen India’s domestic sports equipment industry.

• • The scheme focuses on manufacturing clusters, technology, research, skill development, startups and quality testing to help Indian manufacturers compete globally.

• • Students, MSMEs and sports-tech entrepreneurs could benefit from new career opportunities, manufacturing support and a stronger domestic supply chain.
    
    

India’s sporting ambitions extend beyond athletes and medals. Behind every match are manufacturers, product designers, engineers, quality testers and suppliers who make the equipment athletes rely on.

The government’s new Khelo India Sports Goods Manufacturing Scheme, approved with an outlay of ₹1,856.67 crore for 2026-27 to 2033-34, aims to strengthen this often-overlooked industry.

The scheme focuses on two areas: financial incentives for manufacturers and ecosystem development through testing facilities, research, skill training, startups and branding.

A key proposal is the creation of Sports Goods Manufacturing Zones, bringing manufacturers, suppliers and testing facilities together. The initiative also aims to strengthen existing manufacturing clusters, particularly in Jalandhar, Punjab, and Meerut, Uttar Pradesh.

The opportunity extends beyond factories. Students could explore careers in sports product design, materials science, biomechanics, quality assurance, supply chain management and exports. Startups developing sports equipment and technology could also benefit from ecosystem support, subject to the final eligibility guidelines.

For micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs), improved testing infrastructure and manufacturing support could make it easier to meet international quality standards and explore export markets.

However, the scheme’s impact will depend on implementation, accessibility for smaller businesses and the ability of Indian manufacturers to compete on quality and price.

The larger ambition is to make India not just a nation that loves sport, but one that designs and manufactures the equipment used around the world.

Disclaimer: This article is for information purposes only and is not investment advice.

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