Impact of Sports Participation on Mental Health and Academic Well-Being of College Students in the Context of India's Vision 2047

Sports and physical activity play a crucial role in the holistic development of students, impacting not only physical fitness but also mental health and academic well-being. In today’s competitive academic environment, college students often face stress, anxiety, and emotional challenges, which can adversely affect their performance and overall personality. Recognizing the importance of youth development, the Government of India has emphasized holistic education and well-being in line with India’s Vision 2047. This research, conducted between July and December 2025, focuses on examining the impact of sports participation on the mental health of students from Government First Grade College, AKSGV Arts & Commerce Degree College, and Sri Saibaba Degree College in Kamalapur Taluk, Kalaburagi District, Karnataka. By comparing sports participants with non-participants, the study provides empirical evidence on how regular engagement in sports activities contributes to reduced stress, better emotional balance, improved self-confidence, and enhanced academic focus among college youth.