Uttar Pradesh CM Yogi Adityanath during an inspection visit to review the work of Major Dhyan Chand Sports University. (PTI Photo) Uttar Pradesh is ramping up its ambitions to become a major sports hub, with the Yogi Adityanath-led government rolling out a sweeping plan aimed at world-class infrastructure, education and local development. At the heart of this push is a strong emphasis on building a sports 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 the final stages of construction and is expected to be fully operational by May. Spread over 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, which costs Rs 250 crore, is nearing completion, while the second phase will see an additional infusion of Rs 200 crore.A sports university to anchor the UP visionNamed after hockey legend Major Dhyan Chand, the sports university is positioned as the epicenter of Uttar Pradesh’s sports ecosystem. The academic session has already started, temporary courses are running at Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel Agricultural University, Meerut. From the coming academic year, the institution will move to its permanent campus.READ ALSO: UP’s heavy push for sporting excellence, rewards and jobs boosts the rise of athletesIt will offer diploma, degree and postgraduate programs across 12 sports, including traditional disciplines, along with research-oriented courses. The Chief Minister emphasized the importance of hiring top staff and involving ex-athletes as coaches to ensure practical, high-performance training. The aim is to develop a world-class institution that will contribute to India’s sporting success on the global stage.Expanding the network of universities and academiesApart from the university, the state is trying to strengthen its sports education network by establishing at least one sports college in each division. Currently, institutions like 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 to add more.The government is also extending support to private academies to nurture grassroots talent. Uttar Pradesh already boasts strong training ecosystems, including the renowned Gaurav Khanna Excellia Badminton Academy in Lucknow, a key center of para badminton excellence under national coach Gaurav Khanna. In addition, several tennis academies across the state offer world-class facilities, including grass, clay and hard courts.Strengthening the infrastructure to support sporting ambitionsInfrastructure development remains a key pillar of the state’s strategy. An international standard shooting range is being revived in Lucknow and the long-pending velodrome project has also received fresh approval. Both the facilities are being developed in the Guru Gobind Singh Sports College complex, further enhancing the city’s sporting reputation.With improved infrastructure and institutional support, Uttar Pradesh is now focusing on hosting major events. The State Olympic Association is planning bids for the National Youth Games and then the National Games, signaling growing confidence in its abilities.From stadiums and academies to education and career paths, Uttar Pradesh’s multi-pronged approach continues to shape a strong sports culture. With sustained investment and policy support, the state is positioning itself as a key contributor to India’s future sporting success.
