Athletic Scholarship in India: Sports and education together can build a powerful future, and the Government of India understands this very well. That is why many athletic scholarships and sports scholarships are provided to talented students every year.
These scholarships help students continue their school or college studies while also focusing on professional sports training. Whether you are a runner, jumper, thrower, or any other athlete, the Indian government offers multiple schemes to support your journey. In this article, you will learn about Khelo India Scholarship, SAI Scholarship, TOPS Scheme, State Government Sports Scholarships, eligibility, benefits, and how to apply online.
What is an Athletic Scholarship in India?
An Athletic Scholarship is a financial support program given to students who perform well in sports, especially in athletics and other recognized games. These scholarships are designed to reduce the financial burden of training, education, diet, travel, and equipment. In India, most sports scholarships are funded by the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports, Sports Authority of India (SAI), State Governments, and some Government companies (PSUs). The main aim is to create world-class athletes while making sure their education does not suffer.
Khelo India Scholarship – The Biggest Sports Scholarship Scheme
Khelo India Scheme is the flagship sports programme of the Government of India. Under this scheme, talented athletes are selected from school and college level competitions and are called Khelo India Athletes.
Website: Khelo India
Key Benefits of Khelo India Scholarship
- Annual scholarship of Rs. 1.20 lakh
- Additional support up to Rs. 5 lakh per year for training, equipment, medical, and travel
- Professional coaching and academy training
- Scholarship is given for 8 years to selected athletes
Important: There is no direct application. Athletes are selected based on performance in Khelo India Games and national-level competitions.
Sports Authority of India (SAI) Scholarship and Training Support
- Free training under expert coaches
- Free hostel, diet, and medical support
- Monthly stipend in some schemes
- National and international competition exposure
SAI supports athletics, football, wrestling, boxing, badminton, and many other sports. Selection is fully performance-based.
Website: SAI
TOPS Scheme – Target Olympic Podium Scheme
TOPS (Target Olympic Podium Scheme) is for elite athletes who have the potential to win medals in the Olympics, Asian Games, and World Championships.
Website: TOPS Scheme
Benefits of TOPS Scheme
- Foreign training with world-class coaches
- Latest equipment and sports science support
- Travel and competition expenses
- Monthly financial assistance
This scheme is not for beginners but for high-performing national and international athletes.
National Scholarship Portal (NSP) – Sports Scholarships
Some government sports scholarships are available on the National Scholarship Portal.
Website: https://scholarships.gov.in
- National Sports Talent Search Scheme
- MYAS (Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports) Scholarships
- School-level and junior athlete scholarships
These are mainly for young students who are starting their sports careers.
State Government Sports Scholarships in India
- Maharashtra Sports Scholarship
- Uttar Pradesh Sports Scholarship
- Haryana Sports Nursery Scheme
- Rajasthan, MP, Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, Bihar, etc.
Benefits of State Government Sports Scholarships
- Rs. 10,000 to Rs. 1,00,000 per year or monthly stipend
- Fee support, diet allowance, and training support
- Some states also provide government jobs after good performance
PSU and Government Company Sports Scholarships
- ONGC Sports Scholarship
- Indian Oil Sports Scholarship
- SAIL Sports Promotion Scheme
- Railways Sports Quota
- Airport Authority of India (AAI)
Benefits of PSU Sports Scholarships
- Rs. 10,000 to Rs. 30,000 per month stipend
- Free training and competition support
- Job opportunities in sports quota
Eligibility for Athletic Scholarships in India
- The applicant must be a student (school or college)
- Must have district, state, or national level sports certificate
- Age limit depends on the scheme
- Sports discipline must be recognized
- Good academic and sports record
How to Apply for a Government Sports Scholarship?
- Visit https://scholarships.gov.in
- Complete One Time Registration (OTR)
- Login and select the sports scholarship scheme
- Upload Aadhaar card, bank details, school/college certificate, and sports certificates
- Submit the application and save the application number
Some schemes like Khelo India and TOPS do not require direct application and are selection-based.
Benefits of Athletic Scholarships for Students
- Financial support for education and training
- Free or subsidized coaching
- National and international exposure
- Career opportunities in government jobs
- Better chance to become a professional athlete
Why Does the Government Promote Sports Scholarships?
- Increase India’s performance in Olympics and world events
- Support talented but financially weak athletes
- Build a strong sports ecosystem
- Encourage students to choose sports as a career
FAQs – Athletic Scholarship in India
Q1. Can school students get sports scholarships in India? Yes, many schemes support students from school level.
Q2. Is Khelo India scholarship applied online? No, it is performance-based selection.
Q3. Is athletics included? Yes, athletics is fully covered.
Q4. Can I get both education and sports support? Yes, most schemes support both.
Q5. Which website is best for government scholarships? https://scholarships.gov.in
Conclusion
Athletic scholarships in India are a golden opportunity for students who want to build a career in sports without sacrificing education. From Khelo India to SAI, TOPS, State Government, and PSU scholarships, there are many options available. If you or your child has talent in athletics or any sport, start preparing early, participate in competitions, and keep all certificates safe. With the right performance and guidance, government sports scholarships can change your life.
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