Delhi's New Sports Incentive Aims to Remove Financial Barriers for Young Players

Delhi's latest sports policy introduces a monthly cash assistance of ₹2,000 for eligible youth athletes, a step intended to eliminate the monetary hurdles that impede regular training. The Chief Minister's Sports Promotion Scheme now incorporates a Grassroots Training Support module that will fund up to 25 percent of trainees at each government sports centre. The assistance covers essential expenses such as diet, travel to competitions, equipment, and medical supplies. Each centre can enrol up to 100 athletes, with the possibility of expanding to 150 in larger complexes based on budget availability. The program is open to athletes under 14, 17, 19 and 21 years of age, with selection based on performance metrics, attendance (minimum 80 percent), discipline and financial need. A systematic quarterly review will monitor eligibility and ensure the funds reach those who consistently train and show potential for higher‑level competition.