In a groundbreaking initiative to strengthen an indigenous Indian sport at the grassroots level, the Kho Kho Federation of India (KKFI) has launched an extensive registration drive targeting school students nationwide. The timing is significant, as India prepares to host the first-ever Kho Kho World Cup at New Delhi’s IGI Stadium from January 13-19, 2024.
The digital registration campaign has already made remarkable strides, reaching 7,132 cities and 1,160 schools across India. From the southern state of Telangana to Uttar Pradesh in the north, students from classes 6 to 11 have actively registered in this unique grassroots program.
“Our dream is to connect more than 50 lakh students before the World Cup in January. If we manage to do that, we will also connect 50 lakh families to the world of Kho Kho. I’ve been associated with Kho Kho since 1964—as a player, as a coach, and now as the General Secretary. What I’ve observed is that to grow and advance any sport, we need such registration drives,” said M.S. Tyagi, General Secretary of KKFI, who brings nearly six decades of experience to the sport, as quoted in a media release.
The initiative leverages the power of social media and digital platforms to create a comprehensive database of aspiring Kho Kho players. “The biggest advantage is that when one student joins, their friends also join us, and then it extends to their families, continuing a never-ending connection,” Tyagi explained, highlighting the program’s potential for exponential growth.
KKFI President Sudhanshu Mittal shared his ambitious vision: “As India sets its sights on hosting the 2036 Olympics, we’re committed to elevating Kho Kho to Olympic standards. This registration drive is more than just building a database; it’s about creating an ecosystem that will nurture future champions and take this indigenous sport to the global stage. We aim to make Kho Kho not just India’s pride but a sport that captures the world’s imagination,” the release added.
The federation ensures that registered students will receive regular updates about playing opportunities, potential career paths, and other benefits through their digital platform. This comprehensive approach aims to create a sustainable pathway for young athletes while preserving and promoting India’s sporting heritage.
Currently, Argentina has joined the countries that have confirmed their participation in the upcoming World Cup. With the event around the corner and the grassroots program gaining momentum, Kho Kho stands at the threshold of a new era, poised to transform from a beloved local sport into a global phenomenon.
