99% of Indian children love sports but 1 in 4 PE classes get cancelled, survey shows

99% of Indian children love sports, but 1 in 4 PE classes get cancelled

Sportz Village has released findings from its latest national survey Status of School Sports in India. The report, based on inputs from more than 1,800 children and parents across the country, offers an in-depth view of how Indian children are engaging with sports today. It highlights what inspires them to participate, the obstacles they encounter and the opportunities that schools can leverage to create a healthier and more active generation. The findings come at a time when the National Sports Policy 2025 is placing renewed emphasis on integrating sports within mainstream education frameworks.

According to the survey, an overwhelming 99% of children said they enjoy playing sports regardless of age, gender or location and 96% expressed a strong desire to be part of their school sports teams. 97% also reported that they enjoy their P.E. classes, underscoring the universal appeal of structured physical education. Daily sports participation has risen steadily over the past decade, growing from 44% in 2016 to 58% in 2024, signalling a steady shift towards active lifestyles.

Despite these positive trends, the study highlights persistent gaps that must be addressed. A 13% gender gap still exists in participation in sports such as cricket and football, underscoring the need to make team sports more inclusive and accessible for girls. Many children also continue to face limitations due to inadequate infrastructure, lack of same-gender peers to play with and prevailing attitudes that discourage girls from participating fully. These barriers are compounded by the reality that 28% of P.E. classes are still substituted or cancelled, depriving children of consistent opportunities to be active.

The research further reveals that while parents are supportive of sports as a viable career path—86% stated they are open to their children pursuing sports professionally—there are widespread concerns about limited opportunities, lack of information and transparency in selection processes and the challenge of balancing academics with sports commitments. These concerns point to the need for clearer pathways and more structured support systems for young athletes who aspire to progress beyond the school level. This is especially relevant in the context of NSP2025, which calls for schools to create sustainable sporting ecosystems and prioritise holistic development.

Interestingly, the survey shows that 61% of children play sports for relaxation and 64% for fun, reflecting a clear link to mental and emotional wellbeing. At a time when many young people are experiencing increased anxiety and stress, regular participation in sports can play a crucial role in promoting resilience, self-confidence and social connection. Embedding structured play in both early learning stages and higher classes is becoming essential to address these emerging challenges.

Commenting on the findings, Saumil Majmudar, Co-Founder MD & CEO of Sportz Village, said, "Indian children are clearly telling us they want to play, to belong and to strive for excellence through sport. Yet too often, systemic gaps in infrastructure, gender inclusion and professional pathways hold them back. As schools reopen, we have a historic opportunity to reimagine sports - not as an optional activity, but as an essential part of every child’s development and every school’s culture. By truly listening to what children are asking for and acting decisively, we can reshape sports to support not only physical health, but also overall well-being, confidence, and long-term life outcomes. This is our chance to nurture not just athletes, but champions in life."

· 99% of children enjoy playing sports regardless of age or gender

· 97% enjoy P.E. classes

· 96% want to be part of their school sports team

· Daily sports participation increased from 44% in 2016 to 58% in 2024

· 13% gender gap in participation in cricket and football

· 22% of children report inadequate infrastructure for preferred sports

· 1 in 4 P.E. classes are substituted or cancelled

· 86% of parents are open to professional sports careers for their children but worry about access and transparency

· 61% of children play for relaxation and 64% for fun, underscoring links to wellbeing

The full survey report offers detailed recommendations for policymakers, educators and sports organisations. It calls for stronger investments in gender-inclusive facilities, broader ranges of sports in curricula, professional development for P.E. teachers and transparent pathways to help young athletes progress. These measures, aligned with NSP2025, can help ensure that every child experiences the benefits of sport and play.