Uttar Pradesh is stepping up its ambition to become a major sporting hub, with the government led by Yogi Adityanath rolling out a wide-ranging plan focused on world-class infrastructure, education and grassroots development. At the centre of this push is a strong emphasis on building a sporting culture across the state through a network of universities, colleges, academies and modern facilities.The flagship project in this vision is the upcoming Major Dhyan Chand State Sports University in Meerut, which is in its final phase of construction and expected to be fully operational by May. Spread across nearly 100 acres in the Sardhana region, the university is being developed in two phases, with an investment of over Rs 450 crore. The first phase, costing Rs 250 crore, is nearing completion, while the second phase will see an additional Rs 200 crore infusion.Sports university to anchor UP’s visionThe sports university, named after hockey legend Major Dhyan Chand, is being positioned as the epicentre of Uttar Pradesh’s sporting ecosystem. The academic session has already begun, with temporary classes being conducted at Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel Agricultural University in Meerut. From the upcoming academic year, the institution will shift to its permanent campus.ALSO READ: UP’s big push for sporting excellence, rewards and jobs power athletes’ riseIt will offer diploma, degree and postgraduate programmes across 12 sports, including traditional disciplines, along with research-oriented courses. The Chief Minister has emphasised the importance of hiring top faculty and involving former athletes as coaches to ensure practical, high-performance training. The aim is to develop a world-class institution that contributes to India’s sporting success on the global stage.Expanding network of colleges and academiesBeyond the university, the state is working to strengthen its sports education network by establishing at least one sports college in each division. Currently, institutions such as Guru Gobind Singh Sports College in Lucknow, Veer Bahadur Singh Sports College in Gorakhpur, and Major Dhyan Chand Sports College in Saifai form the backbone of this system, with plans underway to add more.The government is also extending support to private academies to nurture talent at the grassroots level. Uttar Pradesh already boasts strong training ecosystems, including the renowned Gaurav Khanna Excellia Badminton Academy in Lucknow, a key centre for para badminton excellence under national coach Gaurav Khanna. Additionally, several tennis academies across the state offer world-class facilities, including grass, clay and hard courts.Infrastructure boost to fuel sporting ambitionsInfrastructure development remains a key pillar of the state’s strategy. In Lucknow, an international-standard shooting range is being revived, while a long-pending velodrome project has also received fresh approval. Both facilities are being developed at the Guru Gobind Singh Sports College complex, further enhancing the city’s sporting credentials.With improved infrastructure and institutional support, Uttar Pradesh is now aiming to host major events. The state Olympic association is planning bids for the National Youth Games and, subsequently, the National Games, signalling growing confidence in its capabilities.From stadiums and academies to education and employment pathways, Uttar Pradesh’s multi-pronged approach is steadily shaping a robust sporting culture. With sustained investment and policy backing, the state is positioning itself as a key contributor to India’s future sporting success.
