THE GOVERNMENT OF INDIA has officially recognised the Kho-Kho Federation of India (KKFI) as the national governing body for the sport for 2026, settling a long-standing dispute.
The Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports confirmed that only the KKFI and its affiliated state associations are authorised to govern and conduct official kho-kho activities across the country.
According to Prof. Dr. Chandrajit Jadhav, General Secretary of the Maharashtra Kho-Kho Association, the KKFI has been a recognised and registered sports federation under the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports for several years. However, certain unauthorized individuals and organisations had allegedly been spreading misinformation by claiming that the original federation was not official, a media release said.
The recognition is valid until December 31, 2026, subject to pending court matters. Copies of the recognition letter have been forwarded to the Sports Authority of India, the Railway Board, and other departments to clarify player benefits, sports quotas, and employment opportunities.
The Maharashtra Kho-Kho Association has been reaffirmed as the official state body. Prof. Dr. Chandrajit Jadhav urged players, coaches, and district associations to work only through KKFI-affiliated bodies, warning of strict action against those associated with unauthorised organisations. KKFI President Sudhanshu Mittal, General Secretary Upkar Singh, and Treasurer Govind Sharma welcomed the decision, calling it a step toward stability and clarity for the sport.
