Reviving Traditional Sports: Indigenous Disciplines Shine at Khelo India 2025

Bihar’s Sports Revolution: KIYG 2025 to Boost Talent and Infrastructure

Bihar, recognised for successfully hosting major sporting events such as the Women’s Asian Hockey Championship 2024, the World Cup Women's Kabaddi, and the World Cup Sepak Takraw, is now reportedly preparing to host the 7th edition of the Khelo India Youth Games (KIYG). The multi-sport event, scheduled to commence on May 4, 2025, in Patna, is expected to be inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, in the presence of Chief Minister Nitish Kumar and other prominent dignitaries.

It has been mentioned that this occasion will mark a significant milestone for Bihar, placing the state at the forefront of India’s sports development narrative. With the slogan "Khelega Bihar, Khilega Bihar," the initiative is considered a reaffirmation of Bihar’s commitment to transforming sports culture from grassroots to the global stage.

Reports suggest that the 7th edition of KIYG will witness the participation of over 9,378 athletes, coaches, physiotherapists, and support staff, representing 36 states and union territories. Competitors are anticipated to take part in 27 sporting disciplines, including mainstream events such as athletics, boxing, and wrestling, as well as traditional and indigenous sports such as Mallakhamb, Thang Ta, Kalaripayattu, Gatka, and Yogasana. For the first time, the event is reportedly being organised across five major cities in Bihar—Patna, Rajgir (Nalanda), Gaya, Bhagalpur, and Begusarai—making this edition the most geographically expansive since the launch of KIYG in 2018. The games are said to be structured to identify and nurture grassroots talent, playing a pivotal role in reviving and strengthening India's sporting ecosystem.

Extensive preparations have reportedly been undertaken by the state government to ensure a smooth and athlete-friendly experience. These arrangements are said to include food, lodging, transportation, and medical support. According to sources, Additional Chief Secretary (Sports) B Rajender had issued clear directives regarding these preparations, which involved finalising nutritious food menus, maintaining strict hygiene protocols, and ensuring adequate transportation for both athletes and staff. It was also stated that a centralised help desk was being set up to assist with logistical and travel requirements.

B Rajender was quoted as highlighting Bihar's evolving identity, indicating that while the state has traditionally been celebrated for its cultural heritage and academic achievements, it is now positioning itself as a rising hub for sports in India. He reportedly pointed out that the success of cricketer Suryavanshi in the IPL had inspired Bihar’s youth, motivating many to pursue their dreams—from local playgrounds to international arenas.

The report also provided background on the Khelo India initiative, which was introduced by the Government of India in 2017 to revitalise the country’s sports culture at the grassroots level. The initiative is said to aim at enhancing sports infrastructure and establishing training academies across multiple disciplines. Under this scheme, events such as the Khelo India Youth Games (KIYG), Khelo India University Games (KIUG), and Khelo India Winter Games (KIWG) were reportedly created to provide young athletes with a national platform to showcase their talent and compete professionally. With Bihar expanding its role in national sports initiatives, the Khelo India Youth Games 2025 are expected to further strengthen India’s grassroots sports movement, cementing the state’s growing influence in shaping the future of athletics and competitive sports.

Editor’s Note:

The 7th edition of the Khelo India Youth Games (KIYG) marks a key milestone in Bihar’s sports journey. With the slogan "Khelega Bihar, Khilega Bihar," the state is showing its strong commitment to nurturing young talent and developing a more vibrant sports culture. For the first time, the event is being held across five cities in Bihar, with over 9,378 athletes participating. This expanded reach highlights how the games are encouraging greater inclusivity and fostering healthy competition. The Bihar government has worked diligently to ensure excellent training, logistical support, and sports facilities.

According to Skoobuzz, these efforts are not only strengthening the state’s sports infrastructure but also positioning Bihar as an emerging sports hub in India. The games are expected to inspire young athletes, highlight local and traditional sports, and contribute to the development of a stronger sports ecosystem across the country. With Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurating the event, KIYG 2025 is set to be a landmark moment in India's sporting history, leaving a lasting legacy for future generations.