*No NCOE water sports planned for J&K
Excelsior Sports Correspondent
JAMMU, Jan 29: The Union Government has reaffirmed its commitment to promoting sports and strengthening sporting infrastructure across the country, with substantial funding allocated under flagship national schemes, the Rajya Sabha was informed today.
Replying to a question raised by Member of Parliament, Rajya Sabha, Sat Paul Sharma, the Union Minister for Youth Affairs and Sports, Dr Mansukh Mandaviya, said that while funds for sports development are released on a scheme-wise basis rather than State or UT-wise, Jammu & Kashmir has derived significant benefits under the Khelo India Scheme and the National Sports Development Fund (NSDF).
The Minister provided details of allocations and utilisation for the last two financial years. Under the Khelo India Scheme, Rs 880 crore was allocated during 2023-24, of which Rs 872.20 crore was utilised. In 2024-25, the allocation stood at Rs 746.54 crore, with an expenditure of Rs 620.75 crore. The total allocation for the two years was Rs 1,626.54 crore, while expenditure amounted to Rs 1,492.95 crore. Under NSDF, expenditure was Rs 150.18 crore in 2023-24 and Rs 101.51 crore in 2024-25, taking the total to Rs 252.32 crore.
Addressing sports infrastructure, the Minister clarified that there is currently no proposal to establish a National Centre of Excellence (NCOE) for Water Sports in Jammu & Kashmir. However, he highlighted a special provision under the Khelo India Scheme, allowing five Khelo India Centres per district in the UT.
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