Bittu Dutta, Kolkata: The newly elected BJP government in West Bengal has presented its first full-fledged budget for the financial year 2026-27, drawing significant attention across sectors. While the budget focuses on industrial growth, employment generation and economic development, it has also unveiled an ambitious roadmap for the state’s sporting future.
Read Bengali: স্পোর্টস ইউনিভার্সিটি থেকে চাকরির সুযোগ, বাজেটে ক্রীড়াক্ষেত্রে বড় চমক
Presenting the budget in the West Bengal Assembly on Friday, Finance Minister Swapan Dasgupta said the government aims to build a modern and progressive Bengal by balancing fiscal responsibility with public expectations. As part of this broader vision, several major announcements have been made to strengthen sports infrastructure and promote athletic talent across the state.
আরও পড়ুন
Khelo India Programme to Reach Rural Bengal
One of the most significant announcements in the budget is the launch of the Khelo India Programme in West Bengal. The initiative aims to expand sporting activities beyond major cities and into district and rural areas.
The programme is expected to play a crucial role in identifying young talent, encouraging greater participation in sports and creating opportunities for aspiring athletes from remote regions of the state.
Sports University on the Cards
In a landmark move for sports education, the government has announced plans to establish a Sports University in West Bengal.
The proposed institution will offer specialised training, research opportunities and higher education in various sports-related disciplines. Officials believe the university will help create a professional sports ecosystem and allow athletes to access world-class education and training facilities within the state.
International-Standard Stadium for North Bengal
To boost sporting development in North Bengal, the government has proposed the construction of an international-standard indoor and outdoor stadium complex. A sum of Rs 20 crore has been allocated for the project.
The facility is expected to host national and international competitions while providing modern training infrastructure for athletes from the region.
Mini Indoor Stadiums Across Assembly Constituencies
Another major announcement is the construction of mini indoor stadiums in every Assembly constituency across the state.
The government plans to invest Rs 5 crore per constituency for these projects, which are expected to improve grassroots sporting infrastructure and provide better facilities at the district and sub-divisional levels.
Financial Support for Clubs and Athletes
The budget also includes substantial incentives for sports clubs and athletes.
Under the new policy, any club representing West Bengal in a national-level competition will be eligible for financial assistance of up to Rs 1 crore.
In addition, athletes winning medals at national or international events will be considered for government jobs, providing greater financial security and recognition for sporting excellence.
To further encourage athletes, the government has earmarked Rs 50 crore for sports awards, incentives and honours.
New Opportunities Through 3D Animation Education
Apart from sports, the government has announced the introduction of 3D Animation courses in the state. Experts believe this initiative could create new career opportunities for young people and strengthen West Bengal’s presence in the digital and creative industries.
Building a Strong Sporting Future
State Sports Minister Indranil Kha had earlier stated that identifying talented athletes from remote areas and providing them with world-class training facilities would be one of the government’s top priorities.
The announcements made in the 2026-27 Budget appear to reflect that vision. Sports experts believe that the combination of improved infrastructure, financial support and grassroots development programmes could usher in a new era for sports in West Bengal and help the state emerge as a major sporting hub in the coming years.
