______________ program was launched in 2017-18 to improve India's sports culture at the grassroot level. It includes talent identification, competitions and infrastructure development. The program also emphasizes traditional Indian games

The correct option is Khelo India.

To understand why this is the correct answer, let's look at the key features and history of the initiative:

1. Launch and Objective: The Khelo India: National Programme for Development of Sports was introduced by the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports, Government of India, during the financial year 2017-18. Its primary goal is to revive the sports culture in India at the grassroots level by building a strong framework for all sports played in the country and establishing India as a great sporting nation.

2. Key Pillars: The programme is designed around several verticals, which include:

• Talent Identification and Development: A key aspect of the program is identifying talented players from across the country in various disciplines and providing them with financial assistance (annual scholarship of 5 lakh rupees per athlete for 8 years).
• Competitions: Under this initiative, high-level sporting events like the Khelo India Youth Games, Khelo India University Games, and Khelo India Winter Games are organized regularly to give young athletes a competitive platform.
• Infrastructure Development: Funding is provided to create, upgrade, and maintain sports infrastructure across the country, making sports facilities accessible to grassroots athletes.

3. Promotion of Traditional Games: Khelo India puts special emphasis on supporting and promoting indigenous and traditional Indian games (such as Kabaddi, Kho-Kho, Mallakhamb, Gatka, Kalaripayattu, and Thang-Ta) to preserve India's rich heritage.