Advancing SDG-16 Through Inclusive Sports Initiatives in India

This chapter explores the role of inclusive sports programs in India as an effective means to promote Sustainable Development Goal 16 (SDG-16), which aims at the strengthening of peace, justice, and strong institutions. Having acknowledged that sport transcends recreation, the chapter explores its ability to drive change to promote social inclusion, enhance community cohesion, and foster civic engagement, especially among marginalised and vulnerable populations. From the perspectives of Sport for Development and Peace (SDP) and social inclusion, the chapter studies the ways in which taking part in inclusive community sports fosters institutional trust, helps reduce social inequalities, and supports non-violent dialogue. It draws on empirical case studies from key Indian initiatives such as Khelo India, Fit India Movement, Slum Soccer, Yuwa, and Magic Bus in India, which have generally been effective in involving Dalit, tribal, LGBTQ+, and conflict-affected youth through sport-led interventions. It demonstrates that India’s inclusive sports movement is guided by similar principles to important global programmes like the IOC’s Olympism365 strategy, UNOSDP Youth Leadership Camps, and the Sport for Development and Peace International Working Group, which illustrates the alignment of local efforts with international peacebuilding and SDG-16 agendas. This work highlights the connection between sports and gender equity, strengthens leadership among youth, and creates pathways for civic participation, mainly where there is social tension or inadequate advancement. It also points out challenges such as inadequate funding, gender norms, and limited policy integration as barriers to the progress of such initiatives. The chapter uses evidence and an analysis of policies to give strategic suggestions for including all in sports through changes to the national systems managing education, mental health, and governance. It ultimately argues that inclusive sport, when institutionalised and community-led, offers a scalable, culturally rooted, and sustainable pathway towards achieving SDG-16 in India.