As the nation eagerly awaited the 2024 Budget Session, particularly within the gentle of the upcoming Olympics, all eyes have been on the finance minister, Nirmala Sitharaman, to unveil the federal government’s plan for the sports activities sector. The anticipation was palpable, given the file allocation of ₹3,397.32 crore within the earlier fiscal yr. However, the interim price range speech delivered on February 1, 2024, left many questioning in regards to the monetary dedication to sports activities within the yr forward.
Appreciate the slight improve within the #Budget2024 allocation for Indian sports activities, notably in Khelo India and SAI budgets, essential for nurturing expertise and infrastructure. However, the lower in Central Sector Projects funding raises considerations,particularly in an Olympic yr. #sports activities pic.twitter.com/EC2VXMdtQt
— Sports Apna l Indian sports activities __ (@sportsapna1) February 1, 2024
Finance Minister’s Acknowledgment
Despite the dearth of particular figures, Finance Minister Sitharaman did acknowledge the stellar achievements of Indian athletes in her concise price range speech. The highlight shone on Chess Grand Masters, notably R Praggnanandhaa, who lately secured the highest spot in Indian chess by defeating world champion Ding Liren on the TATA Steel Masters 2024. The minister highlighted the exponential progress within the variety of Chess Grandmasters, surpassing 80 in comparison with simply over 20 in 2010.
No Clarity on Allocated Funds
While praising the historic medal tally within the Asian Games and Asian Para Games, the finance minister didn’t disclose the allotted funds for the sports activities sector within the monetary yr 2024-25. This has led to a presumption that there will not be a major change within the sports activities price range in comparison with the earlier yr.
Recap of Budget 2023-24
In the final fiscal yr, the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports witnessed a file allocation, marking a considerable 11% improve from the earlier yr. The Department of Sports acquired ₹2,462.59 crore, reflecting a notable enhance from ₹2,254 crore within the previous yr. The Department of Youth Affairs additionally skilled a major improve, with ₹934.73 crore allotted.
Key Allocations in 2023-24
Khelo India
The Khelo India initiative acquired a considerable improve, with a particular allocation of ₹1,045 crore, almost one-third of the entire price range.
Sports Authority of India (SAI)
SAI secured a notable price range of ₹785.52 crore, signifying a continued dedication to fostering sports activities growth within the nation.
National Sports Federations and National Service Scheme
Both National Sports Federations and the National Service Scheme acquired ₹325 crore every, indicating a ₹45 crore increment for the previous from the earlier fiscal.
