The Sports Ministry has opened a national register for physical education teachers, starting October 1. The move aims to create a verified database of qualified PE instructors across the country.

The register is expected to help schools and institutions find trained physical education professionals. It will also give the ministry data on the availability of sports teachers, which has been patchy in many states.

Physical education has gained policy attention in recent years as part of the push for fitter schoolchildren and a stronger grassroots sports pipeline. Qualified PE teachers are seen as key to identifying young talent early.

Teachers can enrol through the official portal. The ministry is expected to use the database for planning training programmes and deploying instructors where shortages exist.

The Khelo India programme has expanded school-level sports infrastructure in recent years, increasing demand for trained coaches. A verified register could also help private academies hire with more confidence.