West Bengal's Budget Allocates Rs 150 Crore for New Sports University and Infrastructure Development

The West Bengal government has announced a groundbreaking budget that allocates Rs 150 crore for a new sports university, aiming to enhance athlete training and development. Key highlights include plans for an international stadium in North Bengal and significant renovations to existing facilities like the Rabindra Sarobar Stadium. The budget also introduces social schemes to support unemployed youth and financial assistance for students. With a total outlay of Rs 4,38,775.29 crore, this budget marks a pivotal moment for sports and youth development in the state, promising to nurture talent and improve infrastructure.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jun 23, 2026, 05:30 IST

Significant Sports Investments in West Bengal's Budget

The West Bengal government has unveiled its first state budget, which includes a substantial allocation of Rs 150 crore for a new sports university, plans for an international outdoor stadium, and enhancements to existing sports facilities, notably Kolkata's Rabindra Sarobar Stadium.

Establishment of a Sports University to Enhance Athlete Training

Indranil Khan, the Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Youth Services and Sports, highlighted that this marks the first time a budget has been dedicated to establishing a sports university in the state. The university aims to support a variety of sports, including Olympic events, and will provide professional training and development programs for athletes.

"This initiative is a historic step for West Bengal. The sports university will encompass various disciplines such as football, cricket, hockey, athletics, and more, aiming to foster talent that can excel in national and international competitions," Khan stated.

Infrastructure Development in North Bengal

Plans for North Bengal include the construction of a new international stadium featuring an athletics track. Additionally, Rs 100 crore has been earmarked for the renovation of existing stadiums, including the Rabindra Sarobar and Kanchenjunga Stadiums.

"West Bengal is home to diverse talent, but previously lacked adequate facilities for nurturing athletes. With the implementation of the Khelo India initiative, every assembly constituency will benefit from a Rs 5 crore allocation to build local stadiums," Khan explained.

Comprehensive Budget Overview and Social Initiatives

During the Legislative Assembly session, Finance Minister Swapan Dasgupta announced a total budget of Rs 4,38,775.29 crore for the fiscal year 2026-27. The new budget includes the 'Bhorsha Kormosuchi' scheme, which will provide monthly allowances of Rs 3,000 to unemployed graduates and Rs 2,000 to other eligible youth aged 21-45 with a family income below Rs 1 lakh.

Financial Highlights for Sports and Youth Development

The budget outlines several key financial allocations:

1. Rs 150 crore for the establishment of a new sports university.

2. Rs 20 crore for the development of a new international outdoor stadium and an indoor stadium in North Bengal.

3. Rs 100 crore for the renovation of existing stadiums, including Rabindra Sarovar Stadium.

4. Construction of mini indoor stadiums in all Assembly constituencies under the Khelo India initiative, costing Rs 5 crore each.

5. Financial support of Rs 1 crore for sports clubs competing at the national level.

6. A Rs 50 crore fund for prize money for winners of national and international sporting events.

7. One-time financial assistance of Rs 30,000 for students in government and government-aided colleges preparing for competitive exams.

8. The Swami Vivekananda Merit Scholarship will cover tuition and health insurance for students admitted to the top 100 global universities.

9. Preparations are underway to host the National Games, focusing on enhancing infrastructure and overall sports development.