Pandit Deendayal Upadhyay National Welfare Fund for Sportspersons provides financial assistance to outstanding sportspersons and their families facing difficult financial conditions. This central government scheme supports athletes by covering medical treatments, injury rehabilitation, and sports equipment costs to help them regain their footing and maintain their dignity.
Ministry of Youth Affairs & Sports runs this initiative to honor the contributions of those who brought glory to India on international stages but are now facing hardship. Information verified as of June 2026 confirms the scheme is operational with the existing benefit structure.
Pandit Deendayal Upadhyay National Welfare Fund for Sportspersons - Introduction
This scheme helps meritorious athletes and their families who are currently struggling with financial limitations. The primary objectives include:
- Providing financial support for injuries sustained during training or sports competitions.
- Assisting with medical treatment expenses for athletes or their dependents.
- Offering help for sports equipment procurement and training costs.
- Alleviating general financial distress among retired sportspersons and their families.
- Supporting other deserving welfare activities as approved by the General Committee.
Key Information
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Scheme Name | Pandit Deendayal Upadhyay National Welfare Fund for Sportspersons |
| Level | Central |
| Scheme For | Individual |
| Beneficiary States | All |
| Category | Social welfare & Empowerment, Sports & Culture |
| Target Beneficiaries | Individual, Sportsperson |
| Benefit Type | Cash |
| Nodal Ministry | Ministry of Youth Affairs & Sports |
| Open Date | 1982-03-01 |
Benefits
This scheme offers financial support tailored to your specific situation:
| Category | Maximum Financial Assistance |
|---|---|
| Indigent circumstances (Lumpsum) | ₹ 5 Lakh |
| Monthly Pension | ₹ 5,000 per month |
| Sports injuries | ₹ 10 Lakh |
| Family of deceased sportsperson | ₹ 5 Lakh |
| Medical treatment | ₹ 10 Lakh |
| Coaches and support personnel | ₹ 2 Lakh |
For example, if Ramesh, a former national medalist, faces a medical emergency, he can apply for up to ₹ 10 Lakh to cover his treatment costs, provided he meets the indigent criteria. The Chairperson also holds discretionary authority to provide support in exceptional cases that may not strictly meet every technical requirement.
Eligibility
You should review these criteria to see if you qualify. Generally, this scheme is for retired sportspersons who have represented India at senior levels or won medals in National Games and Championships.
Core Eligibility:
- You have retired from active professional sports.
- You have won medals in National Games or National Championships (Senior category) recognized by the Ministry of Youth Affairs & Sports.
- You have participated in recognized international events like the Olympics, Asian Games, or World Championships in senior categories.
- Injured athletes participating in sub-junior or junior competitions are also eligible for injury-related support.
- Coaches and support staff attached to national teams or recognized championships living in financial distress may also apply.
Exclusions
There are no specific exclusions listed; however, your eligibility depends on your financial status (meeting the definition of indigent circumstances) and your sporting achievements.
Application Process
STEP 1 - Address your application to the Member-Secretary of the Executive Committee using the prescribed form. Mail it to the Member-Secretary, Pandit Deendayal Upadhyay National Welfare Fund for Sportspersons, Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports, Shastri Bhawan, New Delhi - 110001.
STEP 2 - For online application, visit the official portal at dbtyas-sports.gov.in and register your profile. Verify your mobile number via OTP during registration.
STEP 3 - Log in using the credentials sent to your email. After logging in, update your personal details in your profile and click the 'Update' button.
STEP 4 - Navigate to the 'Schemes' tab and submit your application for the Pandit Deendayal Upadhyay National Welfare Fund for Sportspersons.
Documents
Please ensure you have these documents (in PDF format, max 5MB) ready before you apply:
- Passport size photograph and signature.
- Proof of age or date of birth.
- Certificates confirming your sports achievements or participation.
- Complete bank account details.
- Signed mandate form and a copy of a cancelled cheque.
- Proof of annual income.
- A declaration form signed by you and two witnesses.
- Your valid mobile number and email ID.
Definitions
Family
Includes your spouse, minor children, and unmarried daughters who are fully dependent on you. It also covers dependent parents, unmarried sisters, and minor brothers.
Indigent Circumstances
This refers to situations where you or your family have no source of income or an annual income below ₹ 4 Lakh from all sources.
Outstanding Sportsperson
An athlete who has achieved a top 3 finish in national-level senior championships or participated in recognized international sports events.
References
- Official Scheme Guidelines (PDF available on yas.gov.in)
- Online Registration Manual (PDF available on dbtyas-sports.gov.in)
FAQ's
Are payments made as a lump sum?
Yes, most assistance provided under this scheme is through a lump sum ex-gratia payment.
Are sports injuries covered even for junior players?
Yes, injured sportspersons participating in sub-junior or junior competitions are eligible for assistance up to ₹ 10 Lakh.
Can retired athletes apply?
Yes, retired athletes who meet the participation and income criteria are encouraged to apply.
Is the application window open throughout the year?
Yes, you can submit your application at any time during the year.
How can I reach the helpdesk?
For technical support, you should call 18002025155 or 18002585155 between Monday and Friday, or email section.sp4.moyas@gov.in.