Sepak Takraw Makes Debut At Khelo India Youth Games 2025

In a landmark move, Sepak Takraw has been included at Khelo India Youth Games (KIYG)  2025. The sport makes its debut at the Games after Indian men’s regu team won the 2025 World Cup by beating Japan.

India has also won two consecutive medals in the past two editions of the Asian Games (2018 and 2022). 

The seventh edition of the Khelo India Youth Games is being held in Bihar and the state government has made tremendous efforts to include Sepak Takraw for the first time at the Khelo India Youth Games 2025.

Karunesh Kumar, former India international and competition manager for KIYG Bihar 2025, described the inclusion of the sport as a “milestone moment” for athletes and emphasized its long-term significance.

“The introduction of Sepak Takraw as a medal sport in the seventh edition of KIYG is vital for the relevance of the sport. It is a milestone moment for the sport. Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of promoting sports in India has been instrumental in shaping Khelo India Games, and now it is is a brand of its own. Being associated with the brand will further enhance the popularity of the sport in India.

“We already have our presence in National Games, University Games, and now this tag will further boost the sport’s popularity,” he pointed out.

The sport has traditionally been played in the Northeastern states of India. However, Sepak Takraw grew into prominence in Bihar ever since it has been recognised as one of the 14 priority sports in the state.  

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