Rajnath Singh Advocates for Public-Private Synergy to Boost India’s Sports Economy and Global Prestige

NEW DELHI March 15, 2026 — Raksha Mantri Rajnath Singh today called for a strengthened partnership between the public and private sectors to revitalize India’s sports economy and elevate the nation’s international standing.

Speaking at the final of the Aditya Birla Memorial Polo Cup in New Delhi, he emphasized that the government is actively fostering a culture where athletes receive the resources, opportunities, and respect they deserve.

Highlighting Polo as a “Heritage Sport” with thousands of years of tradition in India, the Raksha Mantri lauded the Indian Army and the Indian Polo Association for their roles in preserving this legacy. He asserted that a collaborative approach involving social groups and private industries is essential to unearthing young talent and ensuring world-class coaching and facilities.

Further discussing the national sports framework, Rajnath Singh noted that flagship initiatives like ‘Khelo India’ and the ‘Target Olympic Podium Scheme’ (TOPS) have already revolutionized the domestic sports landscape.

He added that the upcoming ‘National Sports Governance Act’ and the ‘Khelo Bharat Policy’ are designed to instill greater transparency and accountability within sports organizations.

By drawing parallels to the private sector’s success in industrialization and technology, he suggested that industry stakeholders can provide the long-term vision and sustainable support systems necessary for athletes to excel.

Describing Polo as a perfect blend of strategy, coordination, and courage, the Raksha Mantri expressed total confidence that India will soon carve out a dominant global identity across various sporting disciplines.