India is on course to become one of the world’s Top 10 sporting nations by 2036.
The Modi Government is giving top priority to the development of sports across the country.
The Union Budget has allocated nearly ₹4,800 crore for the sports sector.
This year’s allocation is significantly higher than in previous years.
CISF’s initiatives for the welfare and promotion of sportspersons deserve special appreciation.
CISF continues to play a commendable role in safeguarding the nation’s critical assets.
The 11th All India Police Judo Cluster Championship 2026 was inaugurated with great enthusiasm at Balayogi Indoor Stadium, Gachibowli.
Thirty-six teams, including contingents from Andhra Pradesh and Telangana, are participating in the championship.
More than 1,600 athletes from across the country are competing in the Judo Cluster Championship.
HYDERABAD, JULY 23, 2026: Union Minister of State for Home Affairs Bandi Sanjay Kumar inaugurated the 11th All India Police Judo Cluster 2026 sports competitions at GMC Balayogi Indoor Stadium, Gachibowli, Hyderabad, held on Thursday under the aegis of the Central Industrial Security Force (CISF).
Addressing the gathering, Mr Bandi Sanjay Kumar stated that the Government of India promotes sports as a tool for nation-building and youth development. He mentioned that through initiatives such as Khelo India, Asian Games, World Police & Fire Games, etc., the Centre has expanded sports infrastructure across the country by increasing the sports budget to Rs. 4,480 crore – over Rs. 1,100 crore higher than the previous year.
Reiterating India’s ambition to emerge as a leading global sporting nation, Shri Bandi Sanjay Kumar emphasised the country’s long-term Olympic aspiration to secure a place among the top five sporting nations by 2047.
He said, “These events bring police personnel from across the country together on a common platform, fostering camaraderie, mutual understanding, and a spirit of brotherhood, thereby strengthening national unity, integration, and the country’s integrity. He also noted the increasing participation of women in police sports, describing it as an important step towards greater inclusion and empowerment. Also, these competitions are not just about winning gold, silver, or bronze medals. For police and security personnel, who protect the nation, guard its borders, secure vital installations, and work tirelessly to ensure public safety, sports are an integral part of their lives.”
Furthermore, the Minister of State for Home Affairs mentioned that since 1969, the CISF has been providing security to the nation’s vital assets and critical infrastructure. This includes airports, the Delhi Metro, heritage monuments, nuclear and space installations, public sector undertakings, prisons, as well as the Parliament House Complex—a symbol of the country’s democracy.
“It is a matter of pride for all of us that CISF Head Constable Abhimanyu recently won a gold medal at the Asian Wrestling Championship and achieved a historic third place in the world wrestling rankings. This stands as a testament to the importance the CISF places on sports. However, what makes me truly proud are the visionary decisions recently taken by the CISF leadership. The force has undertaken several key initiatives for the welfare of athletes and has expanded its welfare schemes.
Athletes are now receiving direct additional financial assistance, ensuring they face no hurdles regarding quality nutrition, modern sports equipment, or facilities for speedy recovery from injuries. These measures will greatly enable our athletes to showcase superior talent and bring more laurels to the nation,” he added.
Several senior officials, including CISF ADG (South) Padmakar S. Ransiphe, NISA Director and IG Harpreet Kaur Sohi, S.R. Saravanan, ADG, and PIB ADG Smt. Shruti Patil participated in the event.
The 11th All India Police Judo Cluster 2026 will be held from 23rd to 30th July 2026. Over 1,600 sportspersons representing 36 State Police and Central Armed Police Force (CAPF) organisations have taken part in the championship, competing in Judo, Wushu, Taekwondo, Karate and Pencak Silat.
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