India Launches High-Performance Kabaddi Camp Ahead of Asian Games 2026
Bellary, March 27: In a major boost to India’s sporting ambitions, the Amateur Kabaddi Federation of India (AKFI) has launched a high-performance strength and conditioning camp at the Inspire Institute of Sport (IIS), bringing together top kabaddi athletes from across the country ahead of the Asian Games 2026.
Scheduled from March 27 to April 2, the camp is designed to enhance athlete performance, improve fitness benchmarks, and build a strong pipeline for international competitions.
Kabaddi, deeply rooted in India’s cultural and rural traditions, has evolved into a globally recognised sport, particularly after its inclusion in the Asian Games in 1990. India has historically dominated kabaddi at the continental level, consistently winning gold medals in both men’s and women’s categories.
The rise of the Pro Kabaddi League (PKL) since 2014 has transformed the sport’s ecosystem by introducing professionalism, analytics, and global visibility. This camp reflects a continuation of that evolution, integrating sports science with traditional strengths.
The camp features some of India’s biggest kabaddi stars, including Naveen Kumar, Pawan Sehrawat, Arjun Deshwal, Aslam Inamdar, Sunil Kumar, Ashu Malik, and Bharat Hooda.
The women’s contingent is equally strong, led by Ritu Negi and supported by players such as Sonali Vishnu Shingate, Pushpa Rana, Champa Thakur, Pinki Roy, Priya, and Karthika R.
A total of around 45 probables in each category are undergoing specialised training, ensuring depth in squad selection and long-term talent development.
The IIS facility offers cutting-edge infrastructure, including biomechanics labs, recovery systems, and sport-specific conditioning programmes tailored for kabaddi’s high-impact, contact-driven nature.
Official Statements
AKFI President Vibhor Vineet Jain emphasised that the camp represents a strategic shift toward modern training methodologies. He highlighted the importance of scientific support systems and professional environments in preparing athletes for global competition.
Anupam Goswami, League Commissioner of the Pro Kabaddi League and Business Head at Mashal Sports, noted that the collaboration aims to extend benefits beyond the final squad, strengthening the overall talent ecosystem.
He added that in a crucial Asian Games year, such initiatives ensure India remains competitive at the highest level.
National Impact & Sporting Significance
This camp signals a broader transformation in Indian sports, where traditional disciplines are increasingly adopting high-performance models similar to Olympic sports. By combining grassroots talent with elite infrastructure, India aims to sustain its dominance in kabaddi while adapting to evolving global standards.
The initiative also reflects growing investment in athlete welfare, fitness, and injury prevention — key factors in maintaining peak performance during international tournaments.
With the Asian Games set to take place in Japan, this preparatory phase could play a decisive role in shaping India’s medal prospects.
The IIS Bellary camp marks a pivotal moment for Indian kabaddi, blending tradition with modern sports science. As athletes push their limits in preparation for the Asian Games, the focus remains on building a resilient, skilled, and globally competitive squad.
Our Final Thoughts
India’s approach to kabaddi is undergoing a silent revolution. The shift from raw talent to structured high-performance training reflects a deeper understanding of global competition. Camps like these not only prepare athletes for medals but also redefine how indigenous sports are nurtured in a modern sporting ecosystem. If sustained, this model could ensure India’s continued dominance while inspiring the next generation of kabaddi players.