The scheme was cleared on Wednesday by the Cabinet chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Announced in the Union Budget 2026–27, it aims to boost domestic production, reduce import dependence and support the growth of India's sports goods industry through technology adoption, research, innovation, skill development, quality certification and market expansion.
A key feature of the scheme is the development of dedicated Sports Goods Manufacturing Zones. These integrated industrial clusters will bring manufacturers, suppliers, testing facilities, design and prototyping centres, and ancillary enterprises together to improve manufacturing efficiency and strengthen industry linkages.
The manufacturing zones will be developed through convergence with existing infrastructure under the BHAVYA Scheme and NICDC Industrial Parks.
The scheme has earmarked a combined ₹1,130 crore for Anchor Investment Support and Turnover Linked Support. Under the first component, leading domestic and global manufacturers, brands and retail chains will be encouraged to establish manufacturing facilities in designated zones.
The Turnover Linked Support component will incentivise higher production, capacity expansion and sustained manufacturing growth.
The government expects these measures to attract private investment, reduce dependence on imports, increase domestic value addition and generate employment across the sports goods value chain.
The scheme will also extend support to existing manufacturing clusters and micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) through upgrades to common facilities and shared infrastructure.
To help Indian manufacturers access international markets, ₹105 crore has been allocated for obtaining and renewing certifications from International Sports Federations. The assistance is intended to improve product quality and strengthen confidence in Indian-made sports goods.
The scheme also provides for the establishment of Centres of Excellence at premier educational and research institutions. These centres will focus on sports equipment, material sciences, protective gear and advanced manufacturing technologies.
Research activities will be encouraged through convergence with the Anusandhan National Research Foundation. Startups will receive support for developing, testing, validating and commercialising technologies, processes and products.
Skill development programmes will be implemented in collaboration with the Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship and industry stakeholders to address the evolving requirements of the workforce.
The government will also undertake branding, outreach and market development initiatives through the Export Promotion Mission to improve the visibility of Indian sports goods and expand their international reach.
According to the government, stronger manufacturing capacity and the availability of internationally certified equipment will also support athlete development and complement programmes such as Khelo India and Fit India.
With dedicated manufacturing zones, investment incentives, research support and international certification assistance, the scheme seeks to strengthen India's sports goods manufacturing ecosystem while expanding domestic production and improving its competitiveness in global markets.
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