Rajnath Singh says polo can be designated India's 'Heritage Sport' at Aditya Birla Memorial Polo Cup final
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh said at the final of the Aditya Birla Memorial Polo Cup in New Delhi on 15 March 2026 that polo can rightfully be designated a 'Heritage Sport' of India and called for more public-private partnership in sport.
Summary
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, addressing the final of the Aditya Birla Memorial Polo Cup in New Delhi on 15 March 2026, said polo is deeply rooted in India's sporting traditions and can rightfully be designated a 'Heritage Sport' of the country. He credited the Indian Army, working with the Indian Polo Association, with bringing talented players into the sport and preserving its heritage. Singh called for greater public-private partnership to give a new direction to India's sports economy, and cited Khelo India, the Target Olympic Podium Scheme, the National Sports Governance Act and the Khelo Bharat Policy as measures supporting athletes.
Key facts
- Date / place
- 15 March 2026, New Delhi
- Event
- Final, Aditya Birla Memorial Polo Cup
- Proposal
- Polo as a 'Heritage Sport' of India
- Partners named
- Indian Army and Indian Polo Association
- Schemes cited
- Khelo India, TOPS, National Sports Governance Act, Khelo Bharat Policy
Practice MCQs 1 questions
At the Aditya Birla Memorial Polo Cup final on 15 March 2026, Rajnath Singh said which sport can be designated a 'Heritage Sport' of India?
Show answer
Correct answer: B — Polo
Rajnath Singh said polo, rooted in India's sporting traditions, can rightfully be designated a 'Heritage Sport' of India.