In the spirit of the Makein India initiative, which champions domestic manufacturing and innovation,it's time India extends this philosophy to its cultural and athletic heritage.One such treasure is Kho Kho, a traditional Indian sport that embodies agility,strategy, and teamwork. As global trade tensions rise—highlighted by proposalslike former U.S. President Donald Trump's tariffs on Indian goods—India mustlook inward not only for economic resilience but also for cultural assertion.Strengthening indigenous games like Kho Kho is a powerful step in thatdirection.
The Essence of Kho Kho
Kho Kho is more than agame, it's a legacy. Dating back to ancient India, it’s played on a rectangularfield where chasers and defenders engage in a fast-paced, tactical contest. Thesport requires no expensive equipment—just two poles and a lot of heart. Itssimplicity makes it accessible, while its intensity makes it thrilling. Playedwidely in schools and rural communities, Kho Kho has long been a grassroots favorite.
Global Recognition on theRise
In recent years, Kho Khohas begun to transcend borders. The Kho Kho World Cup, held in India in 2025,saw participation from teams across the Americas—including the U.S., Argentina,Brazil, and Peru. This international debut marked a turning point, proving thatKho Kho has the potential to become a global sport. The USA Kho Kho Federationis now actively promoting the game, setting up state-level teams and organizingcoaching camps2.
Cultural Defense in a GlobalizedWorld
As geopolitical dynamicsshift and trade barriers loom, India must safeguard its identity—not justeconomically, but culturally. Promoting indigenous sports like Kho Kho is aform of soft power. It sends a message: India is proud of its roots andconfident in its traditions. Just as Make in India encourages self-reliance inmanufacturing, a parallel movement in sports can foster pride, employment, andinternational recognition.
Economic and Social Impact
Investing in Kho Kho canyield tangible benefits:
Employment: From coachingto event management, a thriving Kho Kho ecosystem can create jobs.
Infrastructure: Buildingcourts and training centers boosts local development.
Brand India: A globallyrecognized indigenous sport enhances India’s cultural brand.
The launch of Ultimate KhoKho, India’s first franchise-based league in 2022, is a testament to thispotential. With corporate sponsorships and media coverage, the sport isstepping into the mainstream.
The Road Ahead
To truly elevate Kho Kho,India must:
Integrate it into nationalsports curricula.
Offer scholarships andincentives for players.
Promote it throughinternational collaborations and cultural exchanges.
In a world where tariffsand trade wars threaten economic stability, India’s response should bemultifaceted. By investing in indigenous sports like Kho Kho, the country notonly preserves its heritage but also projects strength, unity, and innovation.It’s time to make Kho Kho not just a game—but a movement.
----The writer is anInternational player of Kho Kho from Jammu and Kashmir.
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