Consider the following statements:

1. Khelo India Scheme is a Centrally Sponsored Scheme under the Ministry of Youth Affairs & Sports.

2. The Khelo India Rising Talent (KIRTI) Program is aimed at school children aged 9 to 18, with two main objectives: discovering talent nationwide and using sports to reduce drug addiction and gadget distractions.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

In News

•  The 5th Edition of the Khelo India Winter Games recently concluded in Gulmarg, Jammu and Kashmir, highlighting India's commitment to grassroots sports development.

Key Points

• Khelo India Scheme was launched in 2017 to provide a platform for grassroots athletes and build sports infrastructure across India. However, it is a Central Sector Scheme, not a Centrally Sponsored Scheme.
  • ​Hence, Statement 1 is incorrect. 
• Khelo India Rising Talent (KIRTI) Program is targeted at school children aged 9 to 18 with two key objectives:
  • Identifying sports talent across India
  • Using sports as a tool to combat drug addiction and gadget distractions
  • Hence, Statement 2 is correct.

Additional Information

• The KIRTI Program plans to conduct 20 lakh talent assessments through Talent Assessment Centres to identify potential athletes.
• It uses AI and IT-based data analytics for a transparent selection process. 
• Nodal Agency for KIRTI: Sports Authority of India (SAI).
• Financial Assistance: Identified athletes receive ₹5 lakh per annum for 8 years.
• Khelo India Events: The initiative includes:
  • Khelo India Youth Games
  • Khelo India University Games (KIUG)
  • Khelo India Winter Games
• Target Olympic Podium Scheme (TOPS): Launched in 2014, focusing on High-Priority sports like Badminton, Boxing, Hockey, Archery, Shooting, and Wrestling.