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Key Points

Sepak Takraw is making a groundbreaking entry into the Khelo India Youth Games in 2025, marking a significant milestone for the sport. The inclusion comes after impressive performances in international competitions, including a gold medal at the ISTAF World Cup. Bihar has emerged as a key state in developing Sepak Takraw, with over 600 players actively participating. Prime Minister Narendra Modi's vision for sports development has been crucial in bringing this exciting sport to the national stage.

Key Points: Sepak Takraw Scores Big at Khelo India Youth Games 2025

  • World Cup gold inspires Sepak Takraw's first KIYG inclusion
  • Bihar emerges as new powerhouse in the sport
  • Over 600 players actively participating nationwide
  • Government support driving sport's expansion
3 min read

Inspired by World Cup glory, Sepak Takraw joins Khelo India Youth Games roster

Bihar introduces Sepak Takraw in Khelo India Games, boosting sport's national profile after World Cup triumph

"A milestone moment for the sport - Dr. Karunesh Kumar, KIYG Competition Manager"

Patna, May 5

Consecutive medals in the past two editions of the Asian Games (2018 and 2022), a groundbreaking gold medal win by the Indian men's regu team at the recently-held International Sepaktakraw Federation (ISTAF) World Cup, and the tireless efforts of the Bihar State Sports Association (BSSA) and the state government have all contributed to Sepak Takraw being introduced for the first time at the Khelo India Youth Games (KIYG), Bihar 2025.

Dr. Karunesh Kumar, former India international and competition manager for KIYG Bihar 2025, described the inclusion of the sport as a "milestone moment" for athletes and emphasised its long-term significance.

"The introduction of Sepak Takraw as a medal sport in the seventh edition of KIYG is vital for the relevance of the sport. It is a milestone moment for the sport. Prime Minister Narendra Modi's vision of promoting sports in India has been instrumental in shaping the Khelo India Games, and now it is a brand of its own. Being associated with the brand will further enhance the popularity of the sport in India.

"We already have our presence in National Games, University Games, and now this tag will further boost the sport's popularity," he pointed out.

The sport has traditionally been associated with India's Northeastern states but ever since it has been recognised as one of the 14 priority sports in Bihar, the state has emerged as one of the growing powerhouses, with one of its players - Bobby Kumar - also being a part of the gold medal-winning team at the World Cup, and three others from the state are currently part of the national team.

Ever since the state government started focussing on the sport post-Covid, there has been a massive surge in players' participation with over 600 players actively involved in the sport, and its reach expanding across multiple districts.

Highlighting the state government's effort, Kumar stated that all sports bodies have to conduct mandatory training camps for a minimum of 15 days before participation in major games. With his team completing a 30-day camp, a confident Kumar expects the home side to win at least a medal in each of the four events - doubles, regu, quad, and team.

While government initiatives, especially through the Sports Authority of India's training centres (STCs), have already played a major role in the sport's growth, its inclusion in the Khelo India programme is expected to further expand its reach to even the remotest parts of the country.

- IANS

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Reader Comments

R
Rahul P.
Finally some recognition for Sepak Takraw! I've seen kids playing this in Bihar's villages for years. With proper training and infrastructure, we can dominate this sport globally. Kudos to Bihar govt for taking initiative 🇮🇳
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Priya M.
This is amazing news! But I hope they maintain proper selection criteria and don't just favor local players. The sport deserves the best talent from across India. Also, when will we see women's Sepak Takraw teams getting similar support?
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Amit K.
Northeast has been playing this for generations! Good that rest of India is catching up now. Maybe next we can include Thang-ta and other traditional sports in Khelo India? 🤔
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Sunita R.
As a physical education teacher, I'm thrilled! Sepak Takraw improves flexibility, teamwork and reflexes better than many mainstream sports. Hope schools across India will now include it in their sports curriculum. The acrobatic kicks are so fun to watch! 😍
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Vikram S.
While I appreciate the initiative, I hope this doesn't become another political publicity stunt. We need sustained funding and proper coaching facilities, not just one-time events. The article mentions 600 players - that's a good start but we need 60,000 to really make an impact!
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Neha T.
My brother plays Sepak Takraw in Manipur! So proud to see it getting national recognition. Hope Doordarshan will broadcast these matches - would love to watch the Khelo India games featuring this sport. The athleticism required is next level!

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