Vikramjit Singh Sahney, a Member of Parliament from Punjab, has expressed concerns regarding the significant disparities in fund allocation under the Khelo India Scheme.

He highlighted the challenges faced by states like Punjab in nurturing athletic talent due to this disproportionate funding.

During a recent Rajya Sabha session, Sahney noted that Punjab has made substantial contributions to India’s sports scene, with 19 athletes out of the national contingent of 117, making up 16% of the country’s Olympic participants.

Despite this, Punjab received only Rs 78 crore under the Khelo India Scheme, a mere 3.5% of the total allocated funds.

In contrast, other states, which have only contributed two athletes to the Paris Olympics, received a significantly higher allocation of Rs 438 crore.

Sahney emphasized that this discrepancy is concerning and could impede the development and future success of athletes from Punjab.

Deputy Chairman Harivansh noted Sahney’s demand for fund allocation under the Khelo India Scheme to be proportionate to the participation of players in international tournaments from each state.

Sahney said, “I would first like to congratulate Sarabjot Singh and Manu Bhaker for bringing laurels to the country by winning medals in shooting for India at the Paris Olympics 2024.

I would like to draw your attention to a significant issue regarding the equitable allocation of funds under the Khelo India Scheme.”

“As we celebrate the achievements and potentials of our athletes on the global stage, it is crucial to address the disparities that could undermine our efforts in nurturing and promoting sports excellence,” he continued.

He added, “In the ongoing Paris Olympics, states like Punjab have shown remarkable commitment.

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Out of the 117 national contingent members sent to Paris, Punjab has contributed 19 athletes and Haryana 24, representing 20% each of our Olympic participants.”

“This achievement highlights these states’ dedication to sports and their capacity to produce top-tier talent.

However, there is a concerning imbalance when we examine the allocation of funds under the Khelo India Scheme,” Sahney pointed out.

“Punjab has only been allocated Rs 78 crore, which is 3.5% of the total allocation.

Many states received over Rs 400 crore, which starkly contrasts with Punjab and Haryana, sending 19-20 athletes compared to other states sending fewer athletes,” he added.

“It is worrying that such funding imbalances could hinder the development and future success of athletes from states like Punjab,” Sahney stated.

He emphasized the importance of providing adequate financial support to sports initiatives, especially in regions where youth engagement in sports could serve as a critical deterrent against social issues like drug abuse.

“The youth are our demographic dividend. They should be engaged in pursuits like sports rather than falling prey to vices such as drugs.

Only then can we achieve inclusive human development,” Sahney added, urging the government to rectify the disparities in funding to ensure a more equitable distribution of resources under the Khelo India Scheme.