Telangana steps up preparations for Khelo India Games

Hyderabad: The State Government is drawing up comprehensive arrangements for the Khelo India Games, scheduled to be held in the State from December 11 to 22, according to V. Sridhari, Minister for Youth Services and Sports.

The Minister reviewed preparations at the Secretariat on Friday, focusing on athlete selection, stadium readiness, training and logistical arrangements. He directed all departments concerned to coordinate closely and complete preparations well in advance to ensure a smooth experience for athletes, coaches and delegates from across the country.

Emphasising grassroots talent development, Sridhari said the government aimed to identify promising athletes from rural areas and prepare them to excel at the national level. Selection across 27 sports disciplines will follow a phased process based on 1:4, 1:2 and 1:1 ratios, with opportunities awarded transparently on merit.

Sridhari stressed that the initiative must go beyond hosting the Games, with a long-term focus on developing medal-winning athletes from Telangana.

The Minister directed officials to ensure that sporting venues, infrastructure and equipment were ready on schedule. He also called for quality coaching, nutritious food, medical assistance, accommodation and transportation for athletes.

Sridhari said the Games should set a national benchmark for organisation and facilities while strengthening Telangana’s sporting ecosystem and inspiring greater participation in sports among the State’s youth.

Those present at the review meeting included A.P. Jithender Reddy, Sports Advisor to the Telangana Government; K. Shivasena Reddy, SATG Chairman; Dr. A. Sonibala Devi, Vice-Chairperson and Managing Director of SATG; P. Mallareddy, Secretary of the Telangana Olympic Association; Deputy Directors Ravinder, Raviteja, Ashok and Srinivas; and other officials.