Rudrapur is set to host Kumaon’s first Khelo India football and shooting academy at Amenity Sports Academy. Under this initiative, 200 male and female players from across the country will receive professional training along with residential facilities. This marks a major step in strengthening the region’s sports infrastructure, as Kumaon had no Khelo India residential academy until now.
Khelo India, a flagship programme of the central government, aims to promote sports culture at the grassroots level, identify young talent, and provide proper training and infrastructure. The scheme covers initiatives such as the Khelo India Youth Games, University Games, and Para Games. Until now, states like Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, and Uttarakhand had no academy under this programme in North India. After years of demand, Rudrapur’s Amenity Sports Academy has been selected to fill this gap.
For approval, Khelo India evaluates aspects such as land, accommodation, training grounds, coaching facilities, and the academy’s past achievements. Amenity Sports Academy’s strong record, especially through its Corbett FC football club, and the participation of its players in national and international matches, helped secure recognition.
In this academy, 50 men and 50 women each will be trained in football and shooting, totaling 200 players. Along with sports training, they will benefit from accommodation and meals, ensuring a complete residential programme. According to Amenity Sports Academy MD Subhash Arora, this recognition will provide local talent with opportunities to excel and represent India at higher levels.