Indian Sports Authority Officer Receives Chevening Scholarship for Sports Management

Sathishkumar S Awarded Chevening Scholarship

New Delhi [India] June 22: Sathishkumar S, a dedicated officer from the Sports Authority of India (SAI), has been honored with the esteemed Chevening Scholarship by the UK Government for the academic year 2025-26. He is set to pursue a Master’s degree in Sports Management, Politics, and International Development at the prestigious Loughborough University.

Currently, he serves as the Deputy Director at SAI's Bengaluru Regional Centre, which operates under the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports. His selection is particularly significant as India prepares to host upcoming editions of the Commonwealth and Olympic Games, with the next Commonwealth Games scheduled to occur in the UK, aligning seamlessly with his academic pursuits.

Originating from Mela Ammanur, a small village near Thiruthuraipoondi in Tamil Nadu's Thiruvarur district, Sathishkumar is the son of a retired headmaster, Shanmugam, and a retired nurse, Pakkiriyammal. His journey from humble beginnings to international acclaim exemplifies his determination and commitment to public service.

Since joining SAI in 2017, he has played pivotal roles in more than 10 editions of the Khelo India Games. He has also served as an official observer for India at major international sporting events, including the Paris Olympics and the Birmingham Commonwealth Games. Currently, he manages training, logistics, and support for various Indian national teams based in Bangalore.

Sathishkumar's selection for the Chevening Scholarship is anticipated to bolster India's sporting diplomacy and governance, particularly as the nation seeks to elevate its presence on the global sports stage.