Kiyg bihar

Khelo India Youth Games: Consecutive medals in the past two editions of the Asian Games (2018 and 2022), a groundbreaking gold medal win by the Indian men’s regu team at the recently-held International Sepaktakraw Federation (ISTAF) World Cup, and the tireless efforts of the Bihar State Sports Association (BSSA) and the state government have all contributed to Sepak Takraw being introduced for the first time at the Khelo India Youth Games (KIYG), Bihar 2025.

Dr. 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 emphasised 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 the Khelo India Games, and now it is a brand of its own. Being associated with the brand will further enhance the popularity of the sport in India.