Uttar Pradesh is stepping up its ambition to become a major sports hub, with the Yogi Adityanath-led government launching a wide-ranging plan focusing on world-class infrastructure, education and grassroots development. Central to this effort is the building of a sports culture across the state through a network of universities, colleges, academies and modern facilities.The flagship project of this vision is the upcoming Major Dhyan Chand State Sports University in Meerut, which is in the final stages of construction and is expected to be fully operational by May. The university is spread over nearly 100 acres in Sadhana area and was developed in two phases with an investment of over Rs 450 crore. The first phase, costing Rs 250 crore, is almost completed, while an additional Rs 200 crore will be infused in the second phase.Sports University will solidify UP’s visionNamed after hockey legend Major Dhyan Chand, this sports university is positioned as the center of the sports ecosystem in Uttar Pradesh. The academic session has begun with ad hoc classes being conducted at Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel Agricultural University, Meerut. Starting from the next academic year, the institution will move to a permanent campus.Also read: UP promotes excellence in sport, rewards and employment to help athletes riseIt will offer diploma, degree and postgraduate courses in 12 sports, including traditional subjects as well as research-based programmes. The Chief Minister stressed the importance of hiring top teachers and having former athletes as coaches to ensure practical, high-performance training. The aim is to build a world-class institution that will contribute to the success of Indian sports on the global stage.Expand the network of colleges and institutesApart from universities, the state is also working towards strengthening its physical education network by setting up at least one sports academy in each division. Currently, institutions such as Guru Gobind Singh Sports Academy in Lucknow, Veer Bahadur Singh Sports Academy in Gorakhpur and Major Dhyan Chand Sports Academy in Saifai form the backbone of the system, with plans to add more institutions.The government also provides support to private institutions to cultivate talent at the grassroots level. Uttar Pradesh already has a strong training ecosystem, including the renowned Gaurav Khanna Exelia Badminton Academy in Lucknow, a center of excellence in para-badminton under national coach Gaurav Khanna. In addition, several tennis academies across the state offer world-class facilities including grass, clay and hard courts.Infrastructure development boosts sports ambitionsInfrastructure construction remains an important pillar of the national strategy. In Lucknow, an international-standard shooting range is being revived while a pending motor racing track project has also received fresh approval. Both the facilities, developed within the Guru Gobind Singh Sports Academy complex, further enhance the standard of sports in the city.With improved infrastructure and institutional support, Uttar Pradesh now aims to host major events. The national Olympic association is planning a bid to host the National Youth Games and later the National Games, a sign of growing confidence in its abilities.From sports venues and colleges to education and employment pathways, Uttar Pradesh’s multi-pronged approach is steadily shaping a strong sports culture. With continued investment and policy support, the country is positioning itself as a key contributor to India’s future sporting success.
