Khelo India Youth Games 2025: A Historic Event Kicks Off in Bihar

Prime Minister Modi to Launch Khelo India Youth Games

On Sunday, the Patliputra Sports Complex in Patna, Bihar, will be the center of attention as Prime Minister Narendra Modi virtually inaugurates the seventh edition of the Khelo India Youth Games. This marks Bihar's first major multi-sport event, featuring over 6,000 young athletes competing across 27 sports disciplines until May 15.

Maharashtra is set to pursue a third consecutive title, having previously claimed victories in Madhya Pradesh (2023) and Tamil Nadu (2024). The state will send more than 430 athletes to participate in this under-18 championship.

After finishing 21st in the last edition held in Tamil Nadu, Bihar is motivated by the success of previous host states, such as Delhi, Madhya Pradesh, and Tamil Nadu, all of which performed well during their hosting years.

Both Bihar and Maharashtra will present the largest contingents at the Khelo India Youth Games, each with over 400 athletes. Haryana, known for its strong performance in these games, will have more than 300 participants, while Karnataka (236) and Tamil Nadu (307) will also have significant representation, according to a recent announcement.

The 2025 edition will see participation from 36 states and Union Territories, showcasing the event's widespread appeal. Notably, the Andaman and Nicobar Islands will send a 10-member team, including five female cyclists. Ladakh will have 14 athletes, while Lakshadweep and Sikkim will be represented by 12 and 15 athletes, respectively.

This year's Khelo India Youth Games holds great importance for future talent scouting, with many scouts in attendance looking for promising athletes for the 2032 and 2036 Olympics, especially as India has expressed interest in hosting the 2036 Summer Games.

Several athletes from previous Khelo India events will compete, and expectations are high following the establishment of 30 records in the last games, including 22 national youth weightlifting records and eight athletic meet records.

A total of 284 gold medals will be contested in Bihar, with swimming offering the highest number at 38. Athletics will have 34 golds available, while wrestling, weightlifting, and boxing will each feature over 20 gold medals. The first day of competition will include events in archery (Bhagalpur), kabaddi (Rajgir), and volleyball (Patna).