99% of Indian Children Love Sports, But 1 in 4 P.E. Classes Still Cancelled
New national survey reveals strong interest in sports among Indian children, but highlights major gaps in access, gender inclusion, and infrastructure in schools.
Lucknow | 1, August 2025 : A new survey by Sportz Village shows that almost all Indian children enjoy playing sports. But many are still missing out. The report, called Status of School Sports in India, is based on feedback from over 1,800 children and parents across the country.
It gives a clear picture of how children take part in sports. It also shows the problems they face and how schools can do better. The findings match the goals of the National Sports Policy 2025, which aims to make sports a bigger part of school life.
Indian Children Want to Play More Sports
The results show strong interest in sports among children:
- 99% enjoy playing sports
- 97% like their P.E. classes
- 96% want to join their school sports teams
More children are now playing sports daily. The number has gone up from 44% in 2016 to 58% in 2024. This shows a good shift toward active habits.
Problems Still Remain
Even with this interest, there are still issues. A 13% gender gap exists in sports like cricket and football. Many girls do not have teammates of the same gender or feel discouraged from joining.
Also, 22% of children say their schools lack proper sports facilities. Even worse, 1 in 4 P.E. classes get cancelled or replaced, cutting into their chance to be active.
Parents Support Sports Careers but Worry About the Future
Parents are also part of the story. 86% say they would support their child in choosing sports as a career. But many are unsure about how that would work. Their concerns include:
- Fewer clear paths to professional sports
- Lack of fair selection processes
- Stress from managing both sports and studies
This points to a need for better planning and guidance for children who want to grow in sports.
Sports Help with Stress and Mental Health
The survey shows that 64% of kids play for fun, and 61% play to relax. This shows how much sports help with mental and emotional health. At a time when children face more stress, sports can help them feel better, build confidence, and connect with others.
A Call to Action from Sportz Village
Saumil Majmudar, Co-Founder and CEO of Sportz Village, said:
“Children in India want to play, grow, and achieve through sport. But they face too many hurdles. We need to treat sports as a key part of learning. Not just something extra. Schools have a chance to change how children grow – in body, mind, and spirit.”
What Needs to Change in School Sports in India
The report calls for these steps:
- More sports options for boys and girls
- Better sports grounds and equipment
- Trained and full-time P.E. teachers
- Clear ways for talented kids to go professional
These changes will support the goals of school sports in India under NSP2025. They will also help more children enjoy the full benefits of play and fitness.
About Sportz Village
Sportz Village began in 2003. It is India’s largest school sports group. Its programs have helped more than 60 lakh children in 22 states. It also works with groups like NITI Aayog, NSDC, and several state governments.
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