Union Budget 2019: Nirmala Sitharaman shares the 'Khelo India' game plan for sports and youth affairs

Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman presented her first union budget in New Delhi on Friday, during which she explained to the other Parliamentarians and citizens her vision and plans for the growth of the country; speaking about the mandate that had been given to the Modi government on the plank of national security and economic growth, to spelling out the plan to make India a $5 trillion economy.

The Finance Minister, speaking on the agenda for the youth, emphasized that the Union Budget, apart from education and research which was the primary focus area, includes a vision for sports and sportspersons in the country. 

READ | Union Budget 2019: Nirmala Sitharaman Assures 'Mazboot Desh Ke Liye Mazboot Nagrik,' In Budget Speech, Underlines Modi Government's Achievements

In her speech, she mentioned her game plan for the growth of the ‘Khelo India’ program.

She said, “Khelo India- launched in October 2017- has created awareness of sports as an integral part of wellness throughout the country.”

Further added that, “The government is committed to expand Khelo India Scheme and to provide all necessary Financial support to popularise sports on all levels; a National Sports Education Board (NSEB) for development of sportspersons would be set up under Khelo India Scheme”.

The Khelo India program has been introduced to renew the sports culture in India at the grass-root level by building a strong framework for all sports played in our country and establish India as a great sporting nation. The program is expected to help scout young talent from schools in various disciplines and groom them as future sports champions.

Talented players will be identified under it in priority sports disciplines at various levels and each will be provided annual financial assistance of Rs. 5 lakh for 8 years. The Union Ministry of Sports has expanded its scope and will now allow participants to compete in two categories, (under 17) and (under 21).

READ | Budget 2019 Live Updates: Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman To Present The First Union Budget Of The Modi Government 2.0 In Parliament

The Khelo India Youth Games every year has over 10,000 participants from 29 states and 7 Union Territories.

Khelo India took to their official Twitter handle and posted; 

Sports Minister, Kiren Rijiju took to his Twitter and complimented the Finance Minister's action plan of the future;