The Sports Authority of India (SAI) and Indian Oil Corporation have signed an MoU for Rs 40 crore over two years to bolster boxing in India. This partnership, leveraging CSR funds and SAI's expertise, aims to enhance talent identification, athlete development, coaching, and international exposure for boxers, aligning with the revamped Khelo India Scheme.
Chennai is on the verge of being confirmed as the host city for the 2029 Asian Athletics Championships, pending the submission of state government guarantees. This decision was made during the Asian Athletics Association council meeting in Tokyo on Tuesday, marking India's third time hosting the event.
Tamil Nadu Chief Minister C Joseph Vijay presented cash incentives totalling Rs 6.85 crore to nine para-athletes who excelled at the 5th Asian Para Games in Japan. He also launched the Sportsmen Development Allowance Scheme, inaugurated new sports infrastructure including the Tamil Nadu Olympic Aquatics Academy and a Multipurpose Sports Complex, and awarded trophies to top districts in the Chief Minister's Trophy 2026.
Two-time Olympic medallist Neeraj Chopra will host the UBS Athletics Kids Cup in Sonipat, Haryana, bringing the grassroots event to his home state. As a co-owner of SD Sports India, he aims to inspire young athletes and build a stronger sporting culture, with over 350 children participating in the City Final.
Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai announced a Rs 100 crore allocation for sports infrastructure and athlete development during a Sports Conclave in Raipur. The state government is focused on promoting sports, nurturing talent, and providing employment opportunities for outstanding sportspersons, alongside organising major sporting events like the Bastar and Surguja Olympics.
Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma on Friday inaugurated a high-performance sports science centre in Shillong, aiming to provide scientific training, injury prevention, and recovery support to athletes ahead of the National Games. Olympic gold medallist Abhinav Bindra praised the state's investment in athlete development, highlighting the importance of supporting athletes before they achieve recognition. The centre, operational since September, is part of Meghalaya's long-term strategy to strengthen its sporting ecosystem and promote wider youth participation.
Former India cricket captain Virat Kohli met Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde in London to discuss enhancing sports infrastructure, athlete development, and state progress. The meeting focused on policy improvements for sports facilities in Maharashtra and nurturing young talent, with Kohli expressing interest in supporting such initiatives.
Paralympic Committee of India president Devendra Jhajharia expressed confidence in the Indian contingent's performance at the upcoming Asian Para Games in Japan. He highlighted the team's focused training, stress-free environment, and recent successes, while also outlining long-term plans for the 2028 and 2032 Paralympics and addressing grassroots development challenges.
The Fenesta Open National Tennis Championship has launched an Rs 11 lakh Player Development Scholarship. This initiative, supported by DCM Shriram Foundation, aims to nurture talent by providing financial aid to winners and runners-up across five singles categories, supplementing the existing prize money.
An under-20s football match in Brazil descended into chaos, resulting in the referee issuing a record 53 red cards following a massive brawl between players and coaching staff. The incident occurred during a state championship semi-final between Uberlandia and Mamore.
Former India cricket captain Virat Kohli met Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde in London to discuss enhancing sports infrastructure, athlete development, and the state's progress. The dialogue focused on policy improvements, upcoming sports facilities like a Sports City near Navi Mumbai, and empowering youth through sports initiatives. Kohli also shared his passion for cricket and commitment to guiding young athletes.
The Board of Control for Cricket in India has opened applications for the roles of fielding coach for the women's national team and head physiotherapist for the men's national team. The deadline for submissions is November 16, with specific experience and responsibilities outlined for each position.
The Sports Ministry has granted provisional recognition to the Indian Unisports Federation (IUSF) for university sports development, relaxing affiliation conditions. This move casts doubt on the future of the Association of Indian Universities (AIU), which has faced criticism and a show-cause notice for administrative lapses, including issues at the World University Games last year.
The Sports Ministry has revised its Scheme of Assistance to National Sports Federations (ANSF), significantly increasing financial support for organising international events in India, with up to Rs 50 crore available. The new guidelines also maintain funding for National Championships, introduce assistance for National Games, and outline plans for Olympic Training Centres, aligning with India's 2036 Olympic bid and 2030 Commonwealth Games aspirations.
Former India sprinter Ashwini Nachappa claimed she withdrew from the Indian Olympic Association's Sportspersons of Merit (SOMs) elections due to "external pressure," raising concerns about transparency. Her withdrawal, along with others, occurred just before the virtual elections, which also saw complaints of code of conduct violations against Dola Banerjee and alleged misuse of IOA resources.
Russian Athletics has filed a new claim with the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS), challenging sanctions imposed by World Athletics that prevent Russian athletes from participating in international competitions.
Himachal Pradesh honoured 419 outstanding sportspersons with the Him Ratna 2026 Awards, distributing Rs. 17.85 crore in prize money. Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu presented cheques to athletes excelling in national and international events, including Asian Games medalists and Indian women's kabaddi team members. The state government also announced increased award money, incentives for coaches, and a new 'Khelo Himachal Campaign' to combat drug abuse and promote sports.
Nonagenarian Japanese bodybuilder Toshisuke Kanazawa, 90, competed in Spain's Costa del Maresme, showcasing his dedication to physical fitness and inspiring older generations to remain active. He attributes his robust health to a strict Japanese diet and aims for one more competition at 93.
Meghalaya is making significant progress in its preparations for the 39th National Games next year, according to Sunaina Kumari, chairperson of the Games Technical Conduct Committee (GTCC). Following a four-day inspection, the GTCC expressed satisfaction with infrastructure development and inter-departmental coordination for the event, which proposes to host 39 sporting disciplines across Shillong, Jowai, and Tura.
European Athletics and the European Broadcasting Union have jointly introduced new guidelines aimed at preventing the sexualisation of female athletes in sports broadcasts. These guidelines, developed in response to athlete feedback, advise broadcasters to avoid specific camera angles and replays that detract from athletic performance, promoting instead a focus on technique and movement.
Indian para track and field athletes delivered a spectacular performance at the Asian Para Games, securing 22 medals, including five gold, on Wednesday. Sprinter Simran Sharma was a standout, clinching her second gold medal in the women's 100m T12 event, making her only the fourth Indian to win two golds in the same edition. Other gold medallists included Dilip Gavit, Praveen Kumar, Ayush Verma, and Sachin Khilari, contributing to India's total of 42 para-athletics medals.
Praveen Kumar secured a gold medal with a Games record in the men's high jump T44/64 at the Asian Para Games, while Banti added a silver.
Sports Minister Mansukh Mandaviya launched the Extramural Research Grant Policy of the National Dope Testing Laboratory (NDTL) at the WAADS meeting in New Delhi. This policy aims to promote advanced research in doping detection and prevention, reinforcing India's commitment to clean sports ahead of major international events like the 2030 Commonwealth Games and 2036 Olympics.
The Union Cabinet has approved the Khelo India Sports Goods Manufacturing Scheme with an outlay of Rs 1,856.67 crore for 2026-2033-34. This initiative aims to strengthen India's position in the global sports goods sector through dedicated manufacturing zones, research, skill development, and market expansion, fostering self-reliance and creating employment opportunities.
The Sports Authority of India (SAI) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Japan's University of Tsukuba to facilitate specialised training and exchange programmes for Indian athletes, coaches, and sports scientists. This partnership aims to enhance cooperation in various sports-related fields and boost India's international competitiveness, especially in disciplines like athletics, archery, table tennis, swimming, and judo.
National level shooter Homanshika Reddy from Hyderabad has developed Somatrace, a wearable system that tracks spinal movement to prevent injuries in athletes. Her innovation, inspired by personal experience, has earned her a spot in the Top 20 of Samsung Solve for Tomorrow 2026.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi will host the 'Khelo India Dialogue' to engage with youth on India's sporting journey, national development, and Olympic aspirations. The virtual event, structured around five key themes including sports ecosystem improvement, youth leadership, and a 'Nasha Mukt Yuva' movement, aims to gather ideas for a stronger, youth-led 'Viksit Bharat' and nurture talent for the 2036 Olympics.
The Sports Ministry conducted a review of India's Asian Games performance, scrutinising the lower-than-expected medal haul in athletics and badminton. Chaired by Sports Minister Mansukh Mandaviya, the meeting addressed issues like injured athletes and future planning for the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics, with a strong emphasis on federations delivering results and nurturing young talent.
An independent inquiry committee formed by the Indian Olympic Association to investigate harassment allegations by former women's hockey captain Asuntha Lakra against Hockey India secretary Bholanath Singh has not yet met. The delay, two months after its formation, is reportedly due to Hockey India's failure to release necessary funds for the proceedings, despite directives from its president. Lakra has expressed deep disappointment and appealed to top officials for immediate action.
Former national-level taekwondo player Sachin Chamaria, who suffered a spinal injury in 2008, has transitioned to boccia and is now competing at the Para Asian Games in Aichi-Nagoya, Japan. He aims for a medal and hopes to raise awareness for the sport in India, having already made a winning start to his campaign.
Union Minister Raksha Khadse has encouraged sportspersons to strive for excellence, highlighting the government's focus on strengthening sports infrastructure and supporting athletes through initiatives like Khelo India.
Asian Games double silver medallist Vidarsa K Vinod has condemned the cyberattacks faced by fellow medallist Ancy Sojan, advocating for support for athletes and respect for their individuality. Returning to her hometown, Vidarsa also shared her journey into shooting and highlighted the improved support for athletes from the state government.
The Mizoram government has announced a cash reward of Rs 40 lakh each for hockey players Lalremsiami and Lalthantluangi, who were part of the Indian women's team that won gold at the Asian Games. Chief Minister Lalduhoma felicitated the athletes, highlighting their historic achievement for the state and the government's commitment to promoting hockey through schemes and infrastructure development.
Chief of Army Staff General Dhiraj Seth lauded the Indian Army's Mission Olympic Wing for its role in developing talented sportspersons, citing their strong performance at the recent Asian Games as a precursor to success at the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics. The Army felicitated its 20 medal winners from the Asian Games, reaffirming its commitment to nurturing future athletes.
A faction of the Boxing Federation of India (BFI), claiming support from 27 state units, met Union Minister of State for Sports Raksha Khadse to seek intervention regarding alleged governance lapses by president Ajay Singh. The group submitted a memorandum to the Sports Ministry, IOA, and World Boxing president, detailing accusations of power concentration, sidelining elected members, and lack of grassroots development. This comes after a planned no-confidence motion was put on hold by the Punjab and Haryana High Court until November 13. The BFI later issued a statement claiming unity among its state units.
State-run power major NTPC has partnered with the Mizoram government to establish an archery academy in Lengpui, Mamit district, at an estimated cost of Rs 13.28 crore. The project, part of NTPC's CSR initiatives, aims to provide professional training and infrastructure for aspiring archers over three years, with the Mizoram State Sports Council responsible for its operation.
Indian hurdler Santhosh Kumar Tamilarasan is heading to the Commonwealth Games in Glasgow with high confidence, following impressive performances at the Paris Olympics and Asian Athletics Championships. He attributes his success to consistent training at the Inspire Institute of Sport and is focused on delivering his best performance while representing India.
Olympic gold medalist Abhinav Bindra congratulated Indian athletes for their Asian Games performance but stressed the critical need to enhance the country's high-performance sports ecosystem. He highlighted the urgency required for preparations, with the Los Angeles Olympics less than two years away, advocating for robust systems that support athletes from early stages to build resilience and ensure timely expert intervention.
Gujarat Deputy Chief Minister Harsh Sanghavi has launched the 'Shaktidoot 2.0' statewide sports scheme, significantly increasing financial assistance for athletes up to Rs 50 lakh. The initiative also focuses on identifying grassroots talent, supporting differently-abled players, and inaugurating sports complexes and libraries worth over Rs 388 crore. The scheme introduces a transparent, performance-based selection process and immediate aid for exceptional non-scheme players.
Indian track and field athletes, including Avinash Sable and Parul Chaudhary, are using a specialised 'smart track' at SAI NCOE Bengaluru to fine-tune their preparations for the upcoming Asian Games.
