Rajasthan is making history as it hosts the 5th edition of the Khelo India University Games (KIUG) 2025 from November 24 to December 5, 2025. This prestigious sporting event brings together over 7,000 young athletes from nearly 200 universities across India, competing in 24 disciplines across seven cities in Rajasthan.
Historic Launch at Amer Fort
On November 23, 2025, Rajasthan Minister of Youth Affairs and Sports Rajyavardhan Singh Rathore officially launched the games at the iconic Amer Fort in Jaipur. The launch ceremony unveiled the official logo, mascots, and anthem, setting the stage for Rajasthan's first-ever hosting of this national sporting extravaganza.
The event's mascots, named "Khamma" and "Ghani", are inspired by Rajasthan's state animal, the camel, and embody the traditional Rajasthani greeting that symbolizes warmth and hospitality.
Poornima University Jaipur: Key Host Venue
Poornima University in Jaipur has been designated as one of the primary host institutions, jointly organizing the games with Rajasthan University. The university's state-of-the-art sports facilities will host Football competitions, showcasing world-class infrastructure for the tournament.
This marks a significant milestone for Poornima University, establishing it as a premier destination for sporting excellence in North India.
Seven Cities, 24 Disciplines: KIUG 2025 Breakdown
The 5th Khelo India University Games will span across seven cities in Rajasthan:
- Jaipur (11 sports): Athletics, Badminton, Basketball, Hockey, Swimming, Tennis, Football, Archery, Shooting, Mallakhamb, and Cycling
- Ajmer: Wrestling, Judo, and Weightlifting
- Udaipur: Water sports and Rowing events
- Jodhpur: Boxing and Kabaddi
- Bikaner: Volleyball
- Kota: Table Tennis
- Bharatpur: Rugby and Fencing
23 Medal Sports + 1 Demonstration Sport
The competition features 23 medal sports:
Archery • Athletics • Badminton • Basketball • Boxing • Fencing • Football • Hockey • Judo • Kabaddi • Mallakhamb • Rugby • Shooting • Swimming • Table Tennis • Tennis • Volleyball • Weightlifting • Wrestling • Yogasana • Cycling • Beach Volleyball • Canoeing & Kayaking
New Additions: For the first time in KIUG history, Beach Volleyball, Canoeing & Kayaking, and Cycling have been included as medal sports. Additionally, Kho-Kho will be featured as a demonstration sport.
Record Participation: 7,000+ Athletes, 200 Universities
KIUG 2025 is set to witness unprecedented participation with:
- Over 7,000 athletes competing across 24 disciplines
- Nearly 200 universities from across India
- Athletes under 25 years eligible to participate
- 770 total medals up for grabs (240 Gold, 240 Silver, 290 Bronze)
The scale of KIUG 2025 makes it one of India's largest university sporting events, providing a national platform for young athletes to showcase their talent to scouts and selectors.
Sports Minister's Vision for KIUG 2025
Union Sports Minister Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya emphasized the games' significance in his announcement:
"These Games offer a great opportunity for athletes who seek a national platform to impress our numerous scouts eyeing the best talents in the country. Khelo India University Games is not just about competition—it's about discovering the next generation of Olympic champions."
The minister highlighted that KIUG serves as a crucial talent identification program, bridging the gap between university sports and elite national competitions.
Jaipur's Sports Infrastructure Spotlight
As the primary host city, Jaipur will host 11 out of 24 sports, showcasing its world-class sporting facilities:
Key Venues in Jaipur:
- Poornima University Stadium – Football
- Sawai Mansingh Stadium – Athletics
- SMS Stadium Indoor Complex – Badminton, Table Tennis
- Rajasthan University Sports Complex – Basketball, Hockey
- Jaipur Aquatic Complex – Swimming
- LNIPE Gwalior Jaipur Campus – Shooting, Archery
The Pink City's infrastructure upgrade for KIUG 2025 includes renovated stadiums, improved athlete accommodation, and enhanced transportation facilities connecting all venues.
Legacy of Previous Editions
KIUG 2024 Highlights (Northeast India):
- Chandigarh University won the overall team championship
- Eight athletics records were broken
- Top performers: Swimmer Pratyasa Ray (4 gold medals) and Xavier Michael Dsouza (4 gold medals)
- First-ever hosting in Northeast India, promoting sports development in the region
KIUG has consistently served as a launchpad for athletes who go on to represent India at international competitions, including the Asian Games and Commonwealth Games.
Economic and Tourism Impact on Rajasthan
Hosting KIUG 2025 is expected to have a significant economic impact on Rajasthan:
- Tourism boost: Over 10,000 visitors (athletes, coaches, officials, families) expected
- Hotel and hospitality: Estimated occupancy rates of 85-90% across seven cities
- Local employment: Thousands of temporary jobs created for event management
- Infrastructure development: Long-term sports facilities upgraded for future use
- Cultural showcase: Rajasthan's heritage showcased to national audience
The state government estimates an economic impact of over ₹200 crore from the 12-day sporting event.
How to Watch KIUG 2025
The Khelo India University Games 2025 will be broadcast live across multiple platforms:
- TV Broadcast: Doordarshan Sports and Star Sports Network
- Online Streaming: Disney+ Hotstar and Khelo India YouTube Channel
- Live Updates: Official Khelo India social media handles
- Tickets: Entry is free for spectators at all venues (limited seating)
Registration and Participation Details
For universities interested in participating:
- Eligibility: Athletes must be enrolled students under 25 years of age
- Registration: Through respective State/University Sports Boards
- Selection: University-level trials followed by state-level qualifiers
- Contact: Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports, Khelo India Division
FAQs About KIUG 2025
1. When is KIUG 2025 being held?
The 5th Khelo India University Games will be held from November 24 to December 5, 2025 across Rajasthan.
2. Which university is hosting KIUG 2025 in Jaipur?
Poornima University and Rajasthan University are jointly hosting the games in Jaipur, with Poornima University hosting Football competitions.
3. How many sports are included in KIUG 2025?
There are 23 medal sports and 1 demonstration sport (Kho-Kho), totaling 24 disciplines.
4. How many athletes are participating?
Over 7,000 athletes from nearly 200 universities across India are expected to compete.
5. What are the new sports added in KIUG 2025?
For the first time, Beach Volleyball, Canoeing & Kayaking, and Cycling have been included as medal sports.
6. Is entry free for spectators?
Yes, entry is free for all spectators at KIUG 2025 venues, though seating may be limited at some locations.
7. Where can I watch KIUG 2025 online?
Live streaming will be available on Disney+ Hotstar and the Khelo India YouTube Channel.
8. What is the significance of mascots Khamma and Ghani?
The mascots are inspired by Rajasthan's state animal, the camel, and represent the traditional Rajasthani greeting symbolizing warmth and hospitality.
Conclusion: A Milestone for Sports in Rajasthan
The 5th Khelo India University Games 2025 marks a historic moment for Rajasthan as it hosts India's premier university sporting event for the first time. With Poornima University Jaipur at the forefront, the state is set to showcase its world-class sports infrastructure, rich cultural heritage, and commitment to nurturing young athletic talent.
As over 7,000 athletes converge on the Pink City and six other Rajasthan cities, KIUG 2025 promises to be a celebration of youth, sportsmanship, and national pride. The games will not only identify future Olympic champions but also leave a lasting legacy of sports development in Rajasthan.
Don't miss the action from November 24 to December 5, 2025—witness history in the making at KIUG 2025!
