iv. Martial Arts Government Initiatives
The Government of India aims to promote martial arts in India, provide training opportunities, and recognise the significance of martial arts in physical fitness and self-defence.
- Indigenous Games & Martial Arts (IGMA) Scheme: As a sub-scheme of the National Sports Talent Contest (NSTC), it promotes and preserves Indigenous sports by providing regular training to talented sportspersons in Kalaripayattu, Silambam, Mallakhamb, Mukna, Thang-Ta, Khomlainai, Gatka, Kabaddi, Archery, etc.
- Sports Authority of India supervises the scheme.
- Khelo India Scheme: Promotion of Rural and Indigenous/ Tribal Games’ under the Khelo India Scheme intends to promote rural and indigenous/ tribal sports in India.
- Currently, Mallakhamb, Kalaripayattu, Gatka and Thang-Ta have been identified for the support.
- National Martial Arts Academy: This is approved as a School of Fit India by the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports.
- This highlights martial arts’ role in promoting fitness and well-being.