In a major move to boost regional sports, the Kabaddi Associations of Jharkhand, Bihar, and Chhattisgarh have officially sanctioned the launch of the JBC Kabaddi League. Backed by the Amateur Kabaddi Federation of India (AKFI), this state-level initiative is set to kick off in the first half of 2026.
The league aims to bridge the gap between grassroots talent and professional platforms, providing a structured career path for emerging athletes in these sports-loving states.
League Structure and Format
The inaugural season will focus on professionalizing the local kabaddi ecosystem through high-visibility events and community engagement.
- Participating Teams: The first season will feature five teams representing the three states.
- Player Selection: Talent will be selected through organized scouting and a player auction, similar to major national leagues.
- Growth Path: The league is designed to improve local infrastructure and offer professional exposure to young players who currently compete in school and community spaces.
Key Leadership and Vision
The league is driven by experienced sports entrepreneurs and legendary figures from the kabaddi world.
- Promoter: Rannvijay Singh, a sports entrepreneur and director of the Bhojpuri Industry Premier League (BIPL). He also owns the Awadh Ramdoots in the Uttar Pradesh Kabaddi League (UPKL).
- Brand Ambassador: Randhir Singh Sehrawat, famously known as “Coach Saab.” A legendary figure with over 40 years in the sport, Sehrawat is an Arjuna Awardee and the first kabaddi player to receive the National Citizen Award.
- Vision: Promoter Rannvijay Singh emphasized that these three states share a “deep connection with kabaddi” and the league will transform the sport into a “viable career choice” for local youth.
