Telangana Government Supports Archery Premier League to Boost Local Sports

Telangana Backs Archery Premier League

Hyderabad (Telangana) [India], July 11: The Telangana Government has officially endorsed the Archery Premier League (APL), marking a significant advancement for the state's sports landscape as it prepares for the league's second season.

Set to take place in Hyderabad from October 8 to 18, this unique franchise-based archery league has been designated as one of the state's premier sporting events, reinforcing Hyderabad's status as a prominent sports hub.

In addition to hosting the league, Telangana will also field its own team, the Kakatiya Knights, further solidifying its connection to India's top archery competition. The APL's presence in Hyderabad is anticipated to invigorate the local archery scene, especially in rural and tribal regions where archery is a traditional sport among communities like the Koya and Gond.

The state boasts various sports institutions, including Sports Schools, Eklavya Model Residential Schools, and Khelo India Centres, all dedicated to fostering young talent. By attracting elite archers from around the globe, the APL aims to elevate the sport's profile, encourage broader participation, and create new competitive avenues for aspiring archers throughout Telangana.

This announcement was made during the unveiling of the Young India Sports University logo and website in Hyderabad, an event attended by Chief Minister Anumula Revanth Reddy and Indian Olympic Association President PT Usha, where APL was highlighted as a key sporting event for the state.

Chief Minister Revanth Reddy stated, “Our government is committed to redefining sports in Telangana and establishing Hyderabad as the nation's sports capital. By hosting significant events, we are progressing towards our vision of preparing Hyderabad for the Olympics in 2036.”

Jayesh Ranjan, IAS, Special Chief Secretary (Sports), confirmed, “In just two months, we will kick off the Archery Premier League.”

Supported by the Telangana Government and the Archery Association of India (AAI), the second season will feature six franchise teams with 48 archers, both Indian and international, including Olympic medalists and World Champions. The APL's innovative 15-second shot clock ensures a dynamic and engaging format, providing Indian archers with consistent exposure to high-level international competition.