Khelo India Sports Goods Manufacturing Scheme

Introduction of Khelo India Sports Goods Manufacturing Scheme: A Brief Insight

India manufactures cricket bats, helmets, balls and many other sports goods that reach markets across the world. However, many manufacturers still operate small units with outdated machinery, limited infrastructure and high production costs. They also struggle to afford the international certifications required by major buyers. The Khelo India Sports Goods Manufacturing Scheme aims to address these challenges by supporting manufacturers with industrial facilities, financial assistance, testing laboratories and access to global markets.

The Government announced the scheme in the Union Budget 2026-27. The Union Cabinet, chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, approved it on 28 October 2026, with a total outlay of ₹1,856.67 crore for FY 2026-27 to FY 2033-34.

The Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports implements the scheme through its Department of Sports. It also involves the Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship, DPIIT, the Anusandhan National Research Foundation and the Export Promotion Mission to support different parts of the manufacturing ecosystem.

The main objective is to make India a globally competitive sports goods manufacturing hub. The scheme aims to improve product quality, reduce dependence on imports, create employment opportunities and increase sports goods exports.

One of its major features is the development of Sports Goods Manufacturing Zones. These zones will bring manufacturers, suppliers, testing laboratories, warehouses and design centres together. The proposal includes four such zones, each covering more than 300 acres.

The scheme also offers financial incentives to attract investment. An eligible anchor investor investing at least ₹100 crore in a manufacturing facility inside a designated zone can receive support equal to 20% of eligible capital expenditure. Manufacturers investing ₹10 crore or more can receive turnover-linked incentives of up to 15%. The Government has allocated a combined ₹1,130 crore for these two support components.

Existing sports goods manufacturing clusters, including those in Jalandhar and Meerut, will also receive support to improve common facilities and shared infrastructure. State Governments will share the cost of this development. This support is particularly important because small and micro enterprises account for nearly 90% of India’s sports goods production.

International certification is another important part of the scheme. Eligible manufacturers can receive assistance covering 70% of the cost of first-time certification and 50% of the renewal cost from an International Sports Federation. The Government has set aside ₹105 crore for this purpose. In addition, eligible DPIIT-recognised sports start-ups can receive grants of up to ₹20 lakh.

The scheme covers sports goods manufacturers, eligible investors, MSMEs operating in existing clusters, sports start-ups and research institutions. It does not provide direct financial assistance to individual players, coaches or shopkeepers. Its focus remains on strengthening the manufacturing and research ecosystem behind India’s sports goods industry.

The Ministry will announce the application procedure and detailed eligibility conditions through separate guidelines. Until then, interested manufacturers can prepare their project reports, investment plans, business documents and certification details. They can also contact the Department of Sports at 011-23384183 for assistance.

Manufacturers working in other industries can also explore the Container Manufacturing Promotion Scheme. Entrepreneurs planning to establish a small manufacturing unit with financial assistance can read about the Prime Minister’s Employment Generation Programme. New business founders can also explore the Startup India Scheme.

Manufacturers, entrepreneurs, start-ups, exporters and other interested readers can explore more industry, manufacturing and enterprise support programmes on our Central Government Welfare Schemes page.

Latest Updates on Khelo India Sports Goods Manufacturing Scheme

• 1 February 2026: The Union Budget 2026-27 announced the Khelo India Sports Goods Manufacturing Scheme and reportedly provided an initial allocation of ₹500 crore for sports goods manufacturing. The Finance Minister also announced the Khelo India Mission to strengthen India’s sports ecosystem over the next decade.
• March 2026: NITI Aayog published its report, Realising the Export Potential of India’s Sports Equipment Manufacturing Sector. The report highlighted opportunities to expand domestic manufacturing and increase India’s share in the global sports equipment market.
• Khelo Bharat Niti 2025: The national sports policy recognises sports as a driver of economic growth through entrepreneurship, investment and start-ups. The manufacturing scheme supports this broader approach by strengthening India’s sports goods industry.
• 28 October 2026: The Union Cabinet approved the scheme with a total outlay of ₹1,856.67 crore. Sports Minister Mansukh Mandaviya stated that the Budget 2026-27 announcement was now moving towards implementation.
• Detailed Scheme Guidelines: The Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports will issue detailed guidelines covering eligibility conditions, financial assistance and the application procedure. Manufacturers will be able to check how and where to apply through the official announcements.
• Preparation for Applicants: Interested manufacturers can start organising their business registration documents, project reports, investment details and relevant certification records. They should also monitor the Department of Sports website for application-related announcements.

Benefits Provided to Eligible Beneficiaries

India has established sports goods manufacturing clusters in cities such as Jalandhar and Meerut, where manufacturers produce cricket bats, protective equipment and other sports products. However, many small units face challenges such as expensive machinery, limited testing facilities, certification costs and difficulty reaching international buyers. The Khelo India Sports Goods Manufacturing Scheme aims to address these gaps by supporting manufacturers at different stages, from setting up factories to improving product quality and accessing global markets.

The Union Cabinet approved the scheme on 28 October 2026 with a total financial outlay of ₹1,856.67 crore for eight financial years, from FY 2026-27 to FY 2033-34. It combines investment incentives, cluster development, research support, certification assistance and market promotion to strengthen India’s sports goods manufacturing industry.

Development of Dedicated Sports Goods Manufacturing Zones

• Dedicated Sports Goods Manufacturing Zones will bring manufacturers, suppliers, testing laboratories, design centres, prototyping facilities and ancillary units together.
• The proposed plan includes four manufacturing zones, each spread over more than 300 acres, covering over 1,200 acres collectively.
• The zones will be developed through the BHAVYA Scheme and NICDC industrial parks, with facilities such as ready factory sheds, testing laboratories and warehouses.
• Manufacturers operating in these zones can benefit from better access to suppliers, shared facilities and a more organised production ecosystem.

Financial Support for Investment and Production Expansion

• The scheme allocates a combined ₹1,130 crore for anchor investment and turnover-linked support, accounting for approximately 61% of its total outlay.
• Anchor Investment Support: Eligible investors committing at least ₹100 crore in a manufacturing zone can receive support covering 20% of capital expenditure. At the minimum investment level, this represents potential assistance of ₹20 crore.
• Turnover-Linked Support: Manufacturers investing at least ₹10 crore can receive an incentive of up to 15% to encourage higher production and manufacturing capacity expansion.
• These incentives aim to attract Indian and international manufacturers, established sports brands and retail chains while encouraging the development of local supplier networks.

Upgradation of Existing Sports Goods Clusters

• Existing manufacturing clusters will receive support to develop common facilities and shared infrastructure, including testing laboratories and design centres.
• The cluster development component follows a cost-sharing arrangement with State Governments, encouraging State participation in infrastructure development.
• Small manufacturers can access modern machinery, testing facilities and technical infrastructure that may be difficult for individual units to establish independently.
• Since micro and small enterprises account for nearly 90% of India’s sports goods production, cluster support can benefit a large section of the manufacturing industry.

Financial Assistance for International Product Certification

• The scheme provides an allocation of ₹105 crore for international certification support.
• Manufacturers can receive assistance covering 70% of the eligible cost of first-time certification from an International Sports Federation.
• For certification renewal, the scheme covers 50% of the eligible cost.
• For example, if the first-time certification fee is ₹10 lakh, the proposed 70% assistance would amount to ₹7 lakh. This is an illustrative calculation, and the final guidelines will determine the eligible costs and payment conditions.
• International certification can help Indian manufacturers meet recognised quality and safety standards and improve their chances of entering overseas markets.

Research Support and Grants for Sports Start-ups

• The scheme proposes Centres of Excellence at premier educational and research institutions to promote innovation in sports equipment, material sciences, protective gear and advanced manufacturing.
• Research activities will receive support through convergence with the Anusandhan National Research Foundation.
• DPIIT-recognised sports start-ups can receive grants of up to ₹20 lakh to develop, test, validate and commercialise innovative sports products, technologies and manufacturing processes.

Skill Development, Branding and Market Access

• The scheme promotes industry-oriented skill development in collaboration with the Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship to create a trained workforce for sports goods manufacturing.
• An India Sports Expo will provide manufacturers with an opportunity to showcase their products to domestic and international buyers.
• A Brand India campaign will promote Indian sports goods and strengthen their visibility in global markets.
• Manufacturers can also benefit from branding, outreach and market development initiatives linked to the Export Promotion Mission.

Financial Allocation and Scheme Duration

• The Government has earmarked ₹1,130 crore for investment and production incentives and ₹105 crore for international certification support.
• The remaining ₹621.67 crore of the total outlay will support other components, including manufacturing zones, cluster development, Centres of Excellence, start-ups, skill development and market promotion.
• The scheme will operate for eight financial years, from FY 2026-27 to FY 2033-34.

Expected Benefits for India’s Sports Goods Industry

• Higher investment: Encourages domestic and international companies to invest in India’s sports goods manufacturing sector.
• Employment generation: Creates direct and indirect job opportunities across manufacturing, supply chains, logistics, research and related services.
• Lower import dependence: Strengthens domestic production and encourages Indian manufacturers to develop products that currently rely on imports.
• Improved product quality: Promotes better manufacturing technology, testing facilities and compliance with international standards.
• Export growth: Aims to increase India’s sports goods exports from approximately US$275 million to US$8.1 billion by 2036, with the potential to generate around 54 lakh additional direct and indirect jobs.
• Access to a growing global market: Creates opportunities for Indian manufacturers in a sports goods market projected to grow from approximately US$140 billion in 2024 to US$283 billion by 2036.
• Support for sporting programmes: Encourages the availability of quality, certified and locally manufactured sports equipment for initiatives such as Khelo India and Fit India.

Eligibility Conditions Required to be Fulfilled

The Khelo India Sports Goods Manufacturing Scheme aims to strengthen India’s sports goods manufacturing industry by supporting manufacturers, investors, MSMEs, start-ups and research institutions. It does not provide financial assistance to individual players or athletes. Instead, it focuses on businesses and institutions involved in manufacturing, technology development and research related to sports goods.

The eligibility conditions below are based on the Cabinet approval and the backgrounder released by the Press Information Bureau. The Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports will publish detailed guidelines explaining the final eligibility requirements and application conditions.

Who Can Apply for the Scheme?

• Anchor investors: Leading Indian and international manufacturers, sports brands and retail chains planning to establish factories in Sports Goods Manufacturing Zones.
• Sports goods manufacturers: Businesses investing in manufacturing facilities or expanding their existing production capacity.
• MSMEs: Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises operating in existing sports goods manufacturing clusters.
• Manufacturers seeking international certification: Businesses that need certification from recognised International Sports Federations for their products.
• Sports start-ups: DPIIT-recognised start-ups working on new sports products, manufacturing processes or technologies.
• Educational and research institutions: Institutions working on sports equipment, material sciences, protective gear and advanced manufacturing technologies.

Eligibility for Anchor Investment Support

• The investor must plan an investment of at least ₹100 crore.
• The manufacturing facility must be established within a designated Sports Goods Manufacturing Zone.
• The proposed support covers 20% of eligible capital expenditure.
• The investor is expected to develop a supporting manufacturing ecosystem by bringing suppliers and ancillary units into the zone.

Eligibility for Turnover-Linked Support

• The manufacturer must invest at least ₹10 crore in the manufacturing facility.
• The eligible manufacturer can receive an incentive of up to 15%, subject to the scheme’s prescribed conditions.
• The support focuses on increasing sports goods production and expanding manufacturing capacity.

Eligibility for Sports Goods Cluster Upgradation

• The applicant must represent an existing sports goods manufacturing cluster, such as the clusters in Jalandhar, Punjab, or Meerut, Uttar Pradesh.
• The proposed project must focus on developing common facilities and shared infrastructure for cluster-based manufacturers.
• The project must follow the prescribed cost-sharing arrangement with the State Government, which is expected to participate in the development work.

Eligibility for International Certification Support

• The manufacturer must seek product certification from a recognised International Sports Federation.
• The support covers up to 70% of the eligible cost of first-time certification.
• For certification renewal, the scheme provides support covering up to 50% of the eligible cost.

Eligibility for Sports Start-ups

• The start-up must have recognition from the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT).
• It must work in the sports goods sector and focus on developing innovative products, technologies or manufacturing processes.
• Eligible start-ups can receive a grant of up to ₹20 lakh, subject to the prescribed conditions.

Eligibility for Centres of Excellence

• The proposed Centre of Excellence must be established at a premier educational or research institution.
• Its research activities must cover sports equipment, material sciences, protective gear or advanced manufacturing technologies.
• The Anusandhan National Research Foundation is expected to participate in co-funding the research activities.

General Conditions for Applicants

• The applicant must be involved in sports goods manufacturing, product development, research or another activity covered under the scheme.
• The proposed manufacturing activities must support the Government’s objective of strengthening domestic sports goods production.
• Applicants must meet the investment, registration and other conditions prescribed for their respective scheme components.
• Applicants seeking skilling or export-related assistance must also fulfil the additional conditions prescribed by the concerned ministries and implementing agencies.

Who Is Not Eligible for the Scheme?

• Individual players, athletes and coaches seeking financial assistance for training or sports participation, as this scheme focuses on manufacturing rather than individual sporting activities.
• Traders and shopkeepers who only purchase and sell sports goods without engaging in manufacturing.
• Manufacturers investing less than ₹10 crore who seek Turnover-Linked Support.
• Investors proposing an investment below ₹100 crore who seek Anchor Investment Support.
• Start-ups without DPIIT recognition applying for the start-up grant.
• New or unrelated business groups seeking cluster upgradation support without being part of an existing sports goods manufacturing cluster.

Documents Required to be Attached

The Union Cabinet approved the Khelo India Sports Goods Manufacturing Scheme on 28 October 2026. However, the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports has yet to release the detailed scheme guidelines and the final application requirements. Therefore, the documents listed below are indicative and may be required from manufacturers, clusters, start-ups and institutions seeking different types of support under the scheme.

Applicants can start preparing these documents in advance, but they should follow the final checklist issued by the Ministry when the application process begins.

Company Registration and Business Documents

• Certificate of Incorporation for a company, partnership deed for a partnership firm or relevant business registration proof for a proprietorship.
• Udyam Registration Certificate for an eligible Micro, Small or Medium Enterprise (MSME).
• PAN Card and GST registration certificate of the business.
• Memorandum and Articles of Association, wherever applicable.
• Board resolution authorising the application and identifying the authorised signatory.
• Audited financial statements for the preceding financial years.
• Details of promoters, directors and brands owned or operated by the company.

Project and Investment Documents

• A detailed Project Report explaining the proposed manufacturing facility, products, machinery, production capacity and estimated project cost.
• Factory layout and a list of proposed machinery, equipment and technical facilities.
• Estimated capital investment, along with details of the proposed funding sources.
• Workforce and skill development plan, including arrangements for sourcing raw materials such as rubber, polymers, composites, wood and metals.
• Project implementation schedule covering factory setup, installation of machinery and commencement of production.
• Marketing and sales plan covering the proposed domestic and international markets.

Documents for Anchor Investment Support

• Documents supporting the proposed investment of at least ₹100 crore, such as a board-approved investment plan and financial arrangements.
• Application or allotment-related documents for a plot or factory shed in a Sports Goods Manufacturing Zone.
• Details of suppliers, vendors and ancillary manufacturing units proposed to operate within the zone.
• Proof of capital expenditure, including invoices, payment records and a certificate or statement from a Chartered Accountant, once the investment is made.
• Company and brand details of the Indian or foreign manufacturer, retail chain or brand represented by the investor.

Documents for Turnover-Linked Support

• Proof of investment of ₹10 crore or more in the sports goods manufacturing facility.
• Month-wise production records of the manufacturing unit.
• Sales invoices and audited turnover statements relating to the sports goods manufactured by the unit.
• Documents showing additional production capacity created through investment and expansion.
• GST returns and income tax returns of the manufacturing unit.

Documents for Sports Goods Cluster Upgradation

• A proposal describing the common facilities and shared infrastructure required by the cluster, such as testing laboratories and design centres.
• Details of the cluster, including the number of manufacturing units, their locations and the products they manufacture.
• Registration documents of the association, society or Special Purpose Vehicle (SPV) responsible for managing the cluster.
• Commitment or approval from the State Government regarding its share of the project cost, as applicable under the cost-sharing arrangement.
• Detailed cost estimates showing the proposed expenditure and financial contribution of each participating partner.

Documents for International Certification Support

• Details establishing that the sports product requires certification from an International Sports Federation.
• Relevant certification documents issued by the concerned federation, including those relating to first-time certification or renewal.
• Invoices and payment receipts for testing and certification fees. The proposed support covers 70% of the cost of first-time certification and 50% of renewal costs.
• Laboratory test reports mentioning the product name, testing details and date of assessment.
• Bank account details of the manufacturer for receiving the approved assistance.

Documents for Sports Start-ups

• DPIIT Recognition Certificate issued to the start-up.
• A description of the proposed product, manufacturing process or technology to be developed.
• Project plan covering product development, testing, validation and commercialisation.
• Detailed project budget within the proposed grant limit of up to ₹20 lakh.
• Founders’ details and business incorporation or registration documents.

Documents for Establishing a Centre of Excellence

• Registration and recognition documents of the educational or research institution.
• Research proposal covering areas such as sports equipment, material sciences, protective gear or advanced manufacturing technologies.
• Details of available faculty, research laboratories, technical infrastructure and equipment.
• Information about industry partners and details of any funding support from the Anusandhan National Research Foundation.

Documents for Skilling and Export Support

• Registration and recognition documents of the training partner for proposed skill development programmes associated with the Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship.
• Importer Exporter Code (IEC) and previous export records of the manufacturer for seeking branding and market support under the Export Promotion Mission.
• Product catalogue, company profile and manufacturing details for participation in the India Sports Expo.

How Beneficiaries Can Apply to Avail the Benefit of this Scheme

The Union Cabinet approved the Khelo India Sports Goods Manufacturing Scheme on 28 October 2026. The Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports will now issue detailed guidelines explaining who can apply, where to submit the application and which documents are required. The scheme supports manufacturers, investors, MSMEs, start-ups and research institutions involved in the sports goods industry.

The application process will depend on the type of support you need. Applicants should first identify the relevant component, prepare their project and financial documents, and follow the official procedure once the Ministry opens applications. The following steps will help you understand how to prepare.

Understand the Scheme

Step 1: First, read the Cabinet approval release to understand the main objectives and provisions of the scheme.

Step 2: Go through the Press Information Bureau backgrounder on the Khelo India Sports Goods Manufacturing Scheme. It explains the proposed financial assistance, investment limits and different support components.

Step 3: Read the NITI Aayog report on the export potential of India’s sports equipment manufacturing sector to understand the industry’s opportunities and international market potential.

Step 4: Remember that the scheme supports sports goods manufacturers, investors, eligible businesses and research institutions. Individual players, athletes and ordinary shopkeepers cannot apply for manufacturing assistance.

Step 5: Note the scheme period, which runs from FY 2026-27 to FY 2033-34.

Decide Which Support You Need

Step 1: Select Anchor Investment Support if you plan to invest at least ₹100 crore in a manufacturing facility inside a Sports Goods Manufacturing Zone. The proposed assistance covers 20% of eligible capital expenditure.

Step 2: Select Turnover-Linked Support if you plan to invest at least ₹10 crore in a sports goods manufacturing facility. Eligible manufacturers can receive an incentive of up to 15%, subject to the final conditions.

Step 3: Choose Sports Goods Cluster Upgradation if you are part of an existing manufacturing cluster and need common facilities, testing laboratories or shared infrastructure. This component involves cost-sharing with the State Government.

Step 4: Choose International Certification Support if your sports products need certification from an International Sports Federation. The proposed assistance covers 70% of the eligible cost of first-time certification and 50% of renewal costs.

Step 5: Choose the Sports Start-up Grant if your business has DPIIT recognition and works on innovative sports products, technologies or manufacturing processes. The proposed grant can go up to ₹20 lakh.

Step 6: Consider the Centre of Excellence component if you represent a premier educational or research institution working on sports equipment, material sciences, protective gear or advanced manufacturing.

Get Ready Before Applications Open

Step 1: If you operate a micro, small or medium enterprise, complete your registration through the official Udyam Registration Portal, if applicable.

Step 2: If you run a sports start-up, check the recognition requirements and complete the process through the official Startup India Portal.

Step 3: Prepare a Detailed Project Report (DPR) explaining what you want to manufacture, which machines you need, how much you plan to invest and how much production capacity you expect to create.

Step 4: Identify a suitable location for your manufacturing facility. Also, follow official updates about the industrial parks and manufacturing infrastructure proposed under the BHAVYA Scheme and NICDC Industrial Parks.

Step 5: If your products require international certification, identify the relevant International Sports Federation and understand its certification requirements.

Step 6: Arrange your company registration papers, audited financial statements, GST records, investment details and other relevant documents in one place.

Step 7: If you represent an existing sports goods cluster, contact your State Government and discuss the proposed infrastructure requirements and cost-sharing arrangements.

Step 8: If you represent an educational or research institution, read about the Anusandhan National Research Foundation and its role in supporting research activities.

Apply After the Ministry Announces the Guidelines

Step 1: Regularly visit the official Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports website and the Press Information Bureau website for the detailed scheme guidelines and application announcements.

Step 2: Read the guidelines carefully. Check the eligibility conditions, application portal, investment requirements, document checklist and last date for submission.

Step 3: Select the relevant scheme component and fill in the application form according to the instructions issued by the Ministry.

Step 4: Attach your project report, business registration documents, financial records and other supporting papers required for that particular component.

Step 5: Review every detail before submitting the application. Save a copy of the completed form and the acknowledgement for future reference.

Step 6: Submit the application through the prescribed channel before the deadline announced by the Ministry.

What Happens After You Apply?

Step 1: After submission, the concerned authority will examine your application, project proposal and supporting documents.

Step 2: If the authorities ask for additional information or clarification, provide the required details within the specified time.

Step 3: Wait for the official decision. You can proceed with the activities covered under the scheme according to the approval and conditions mentioned in the sanction order.

Set Up or Expand Your Manufacturing Facility

Step 1: Arrange the required industrial plot or manufacturing space according to the component for which you receive approval. Anchor investors must follow the conditions applicable to Sports Goods Manufacturing Zones.

Step 2: Set up the factory or expand your existing facility and install the approved machinery and equipment.

Step 3: Keep all investment records, purchase bills, machinery invoices and payment proofs safely. These documents may be required to establish your eligible expenditure and claim assistance.

Step 4: Start manufacturing and maintain proper records of production, sales and capacity expansion, wherever applicable.

Get Your Products Certified and Reach New Markets

Step 1: If your products require international certification, complete the testing and certification process through the concerned International Sports Federation.

Step 2: Keep the certification invoices, payment receipts and test reports. You may need these records to claim the eligible assistance of 70% for first-time certification or 50% for renewal.

Step 3: Explore opportunities to showcase your products through the India Sports Expo and the Brand India campaign, subject to the arrangements announced by the concerned authorities.

Step 4: Explore international buyers and export opportunities through the branding and market development initiatives associated with the Export Promotion Mission.

How to Claim the Approved Financial Support

Step 1: Follow the claim procedure prescribed for your approved component, whether it relates to anchor investment, turnover-linked incentives, certification or another form of assistance.

Step 2: Submit the required proof of investment, capital expenditure, production, sales or certification, depending on the type of support you have received approval for.

Step 3: The concerned authority will verify your claim and process the eligible amount according to the scheme guidelines and sanction conditions.

If You Need Help

Step 1: For scheme-related clarification, contact the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports through the official contact details published on its website.

Step 2: You can also approach your industry association or the State Industries Department for guidance on manufacturing zones, cluster development and State-level participation.

Important: The Union Cabinet has approved the scheme, but the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports must still publish the detailed implementation guidelines and application procedure. Therefore, the steps above explain how applicants can prepare and what the proposed process may involve. They do not represent an officially opened application process. Do not pay any agent who promises guaranteed approval or financial assistance. Apply only through the official channel announced by the Ministry.

India’s Sports Goods Industry: Where It Stands Today

India already has a well-established sports goods manufacturing industry, with major production clusters, skilled workers and a wide range of products. However, the sector still has significant room to grow in domestic and international markets. The following figures highlight the industry’s existing strengths, export position and future growth opportunities.

Major Sports Goods Manufacturing Clusters in India

• Jalandhar (Punjab) and Meerut (Uttar Pradesh) are two major sports goods manufacturing centres. Together, they have more than 250 exporting units and over 1,000 units serving the domestic market.
• These two clusters also include more than 4,000 micro enterprises and nearly 20,000 household units, providing livelihoods to thousands of families.
• Ludhiana is known for bicycle manufacturing, while Delhi and Mumbai have a presence in sports accessories and apparel.

Sports Goods Manufactured and Exported by India

• Indian manufacturers produce a wide range of sports goods, including cricket bats, protective equipment, inflatable balls, gym equipment and athletic training products.
• Indian manufacturers and brands account for approximately 75% to 80% of the global cricket bat market and around 30% to 35% of the cricket helmet market.
• The United Kingdom, the United States and Australia together account for more than half of India’s sports equipment exports.

Market Size and Growth Opportunities

• India’s domestic sports goods market is estimated at around US$2.5 billion, with sports equipment accounting for approximately US$0.5 billion.
• Global sports equipment exports reached approximately US$52 billion in 2024. India’s relatively small share indicates considerable scope to expand its presence in international markets.
• Sports goods manufacturing depends on materials such as rubber, polymers, composites, wood and metals. Therefore, growth in this industry can also create demand for these materials and support related manufacturing businesses.

Major Sporting Events That Could Increase Demand

• Los Angeles Olympics 2028: The event could create additional demand for sports equipment and related products.
• Commonwealth Games 2030: Ahmedabad is scheduled to host the 2030 Commonwealth Games, creating opportunities for sports infrastructure and equipment suppliers.
• Brisbane Olympics 2032: The event could further expand global demand for sports goods and equipment.
• India’s 2036 Olympic Bid: India’s planned bid could create long-term opportunities for domestic sports equipment manufacturing, subject to the outcome of the bidding process.

Important Links Available of the Scheme

• Khelo India Sports Goods Manufacturing Scheme Cabinet Approval
• Khelo India Sports Goods Manufacturing Scheme Backgrounder
• Official Cabinet Approval Details
• NITI Aayog Report on India’s Sports Equipment Manufacturing Sector
• Department of Sports, Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports
• Department of Sports Directory
• Government of India Web Directory: Department of Sports
• Anusandhan National Research Foundation (ANRF)
• Startup India Portal
• Udyam Registration Portal
• Khelo India Official Portal

Contact Details in Case of Help Needed

• Department: Department of Sports, Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports, Government of India, Room No. 401, C-Wing, Shastri Bhawan, New Delhi – 110001
• Phone: 011-23384183, 011-23386520
• Email of the Secretary (Sports): secy-sports@nic.in
• Email of the Joint Secretary (Sports Development): js-develop-sports@gov.in
• State Level: The Industries Department or the Sports Department of your State, which takes part in the cost-sharing for the upgrading of clusters
• Industry Level: Your industry association or chamber of commerce, which can tell you when the Ministry announces the detailed rules

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Tabassum

Tabassum is a government schemes researcher and writer with 5 years of experience tracking Central and State welfare scheme programmes across India. She has covered 500+ schemes spanning agriculture, women welfare, education, and housing, helping lakhs of beneficiaries understand their entitlements in simple language.