India has a proud sporting tradition and continues to produce exceptional athletes across various disciplines. To ensure that financial constraints do not hold back young talent, both government bodies and private organizations offer sports scholarships. These programs provide athletes with support for training, education, equipment, and travel—helping them compete successfully at national and international levels.
Below is a detailed overview of some of the major sports scholarships in India, including their eligibility criteria, benefits, and application process.
1. National Sports Talent Search Scheme (NSTSS)
Overview:
Launched by the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports, the NSTSS focuses on identifying and nurturing young athletes between 8–14 years.
Key Features:
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Focus on priority sports such as athletics, boxing, wrestling, judo, and weightlifting.
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Selected athletes receive training in sports schools and academies.
Benefits:
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Financial assistance up to ₹5,00,000 per year.
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Covers coaching, education, boarding, and lodging.
Eligibility:
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Students aged 8–14 with outstanding performance in recognized sports.
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Must be recommended by schools or recognized sports bodies.
2. Khelo India Talent Development Programme
Overview:
Part of the larger Khelo India initiative, this program creates a structured talent development pathway for young athletes.
Key Features:
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Talent identification through Khelo India Youth Games and other recognized tournaments.
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Training under experienced coaches at accredited academies.
Benefits:
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Annual scholarship of ₹5,00,000 for up to 8 years.
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Support includes coaching, travel, education, and diet.
Eligibility:
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Performance in U-14 and U-17 categories at recognized events.
3. Sports Authority of India (SAI) Scholarships
Overview:
SAI, under the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports, offers several scholarship schemes to nurture athletes at different levels.
Key Features:
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Covers more than 20 Olympic and non-Olympic sports.
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Operates through schemes like the National Centre of Excellence (NCOE) and SAI Training Centres (STC).
Benefits:
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Stipends between ₹9,000 and ₹30,000 per month.
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Access to top-level coaching, dietary plans, and healthcare.
Eligibility:
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Based on performance in state or national-level competitions.
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Selection via talent identification camps and trials.
4. INSPIRE Institute of Sport (IIS)
Overview:
A private initiative by JSW Sports, IIS is dedicated to grooming India’s future Olympic champions.
Key Features:
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Offers world-class infrastructure and international-level coaching.
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Focus areas include wrestling, boxing, athletics, and judo.
Benefits:
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Full scholarship covering training, nutrition, education, and medical care.
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Career counseling and post-retirement support.
Eligibility:
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Selection based on scouting programs, trials, and performance metrics.
5. University and College Sports Scholarships
Many Indian universities provide scholarships to athletes during admissions or through sports quotas.
Prominent Institutions:
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Delhi University
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University of Mumbai
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Banaras Hindu University (BHU)
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Guru Nanak Dev University
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LNIPE (Lakshmibai National Institute of Physical Education)
Benefits:
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Fee waivers, hostel facilities, and monthly stipends.
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Relaxed attendance rules and academic flexibility for athletes.
Eligibility:
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Participation in Inter-University, National, or State-level tournaments.
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Performance in university-conducted trials.
6. Private Sports Scholarships
a) GoSports Foundation
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Overview: A non-profit organization supporting athletes in Olympic sports.
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Benefits: Financial aid, training support, and mentorship (including the Rahul Dravid Athlete Mentorship Programme).
b) ONGC Sports Scholarship
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Overview: Supports promising athletes across disciplines such as badminton, athletics, shooting, and tennis.
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Benefits: Monthly stipend ranging from ₹15,000 (junior) to ₹30,000 (elite).
c) Reliance Foundation Youth Sports (RFYS)
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Overview: Promotes school and college sports, with a strong focus on grassroots football development.
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Benefits: Training facilities, sports kits, and competitive exposure.
7. State Government Sports Scholarships
Several states run their own athlete-support programs.
Examples:
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Haryana Sports Scholarship Scheme
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Tamil Nadu Chief Minister’s Trophy Scholarships
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Kerala Sports Council Scholarships
Benefits:
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Monthly stipends, travel allowances, and education grants.
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Incentives for medal winners at state and national levels.
Conclusion
Sports scholarships in India play a crucial role in shaping the country’s sporting future. From central and state government schemes to private foundations and university programs, these scholarships provide athletes with financial security and professional guidance. With the right support system, aspiring players can focus on their training and education—paving the way for India to achieve greater success on the global sporting stage.