Telangana’s Vision for a Stronger Sports Ecosystem Ahead of 2036 Olympics
Pioneering Sports Representation
In an ambitious move, Telangana aims to secure representation in every sport at the 2036 Olympic Games. This initiative was highlighted by Special Chief Secretary Jayesh Ranjan during the “Sports Tech Podium 2025” event held at T-Hub. The state is forging ahead with a comprehensive strategy that combines grassroots engagement, advanced infrastructure, and active private sector collaboration to create a robust sports ecosystem.
Building a Future in Sports
As part of its evolving sports policy, Telangana is laying the groundwork for significant projects including a dedicated “Sports University” and an expansive “Sports City.” Collaborations with entities like Dubai Sports City and GMR Sports underscore the state’s commitment to enhancing its sports infrastructure. This initiative aims to establish a nurturing environment where sports talent can thrive from the grassroots level to international stages.
Among those present at the event were influential startups and investment groups such as Centre Court Capital, LegaXy, Impetus Sports Capital, and Hyderabad Angels. Their participation signals a growing interest in the region’s sports innovation potential, reinforcing Telangana’s position as a focal point for sports technology.
Government Support and Private Sector Engagement
Highlighting the government’s dedication to advancing sports, Ranjan noted the enthusiastic support from Chief Minister A Revanth Reddy. The Chief Minister’s passion for sports has catalyzed unprecedented backing for the state’s sports ecosystem. The proposed strategy seeks to eventually transition away from direct government involvement in day-to-day operations in favor of a model that promotes private sector engagement and industry-driven growth. This forward-thinking approach aims to create a self-sustaining ecosystem that fosters new talent.
Hyderabad: A Hub for Sports Innovation
Hyderabad is quickly emerging as “India’s Sports Tech and Innovation Capital.” The Sports Tech Podium 2025 attracted key players from the investment and policymaking sectors, including top-tier ventures like Hyderabad Angels and Impetus Sports Capital. Their active participation highlights Telangana’s growing footprint in the realm of sports innovation and technology-driven athlete development, further solidifying its status in the competitive landscape of sports.
Ambitious Projects on the Horizon
The upcoming “Sports City” initiative is set to bring substantial investment and infrastructure improvements, with a significant memorandum of understanding (MoU) slated for discussion between Dubai Sports City and GMR Sports during the Telangana Rising Global Summit on December 8-9. This project aims to enhance international-standard facilities, positioning Telangana as a premier destination for global sports investment.
The Sports Participation Challenge
Despite the enthusiasm surrounding sports, the statistics present a stark contrast. According to Ratnakar Samavedam, CEO and managing partner of Hyderabad Angels, approximately only 10% of India’s population engages in sports passively, with a mere 0.01% competing at serious levels. The dominance of cricket as the nation’s leading sport persists, boasting an estimated fanbase of 655 million.
The Booming Sports Tech Market
India’s sports ecosystem is on the brink of transformative growth. Experts suggest robust business opportunities are emerging as participation in competitive sports continues to rise. The global sports tech market, currently valued at around USD 19 billion, is projected to nearly double to USD 40 billion by 2030, reflecting a 16% compound annual growth rate (CAGR) that significantly exceeds the average growth seen in other industries.
This optimistic outlook signals an era of innovation where advancements in sports technology may lead to a more engaged and competitive population, ultimately paving the way for a stronger representation in international sporting events for India, particularly at major platforms like the Olympics.
