Telangana to host Khelo India Youth Games from December 11
The 12-day event in Hyderabad will feature 27 competitive sports and a sailing demonstration.
Union Minister of Youth Affairs and Sports Dr Mansukh Mandaviya announced on Monday that Telangana will host the Khelo India Youth Games (KIYG) 2026 from December 11 to 22. According to Telangana Today, this marks the first time the state will host the flagship sports ministry event.
The tournament in Hyderabad will include 22 medal sports at locations such as the Gachibowli sports complex and the Lal Bahadur Shastri Stadium complex in Basheerbagh. Other competitions will take place in Khammam for archery, Hanumankonda for athletics, Karimnagar for judo, Nizamabad for table tennis, and Mahbubnagar for kabaddi.
Approximately 6,000 competitors and 1,800 support personnel are anticipated for the 12-day programme. Softball will enter the competitive category for the first time, while sailing will be featured as a demonstration event. Rediff reported that rowing has replaced rugby in the competitive list for this edition.
Dr Mandaviya stated that the inclusion of sailing aligns with Prime Minister Narendra Modi's vision to promote sports using natural resources like mountains and seas. He added that the games provide a platform for talented athletes to showcase their skills.
The previous edition was held in Bihar from May 3-15, 2025. Maharashtra defended its title in that edition, finishing first with 58 gold, 47 silver, and 53 bronze medals, followed by Haryana and Rajasthan.