Karnataka Government Introduces 2% Sports Quota in Direct Recruitment: New Rules 2026 Explained
The Government of Karnataka has notified a major amendment to the Karnataka Civil Services (General Recruitment) Rules, 1977, providing a 2% reservation for Sports Achievers in direct recruitment.
The new rules, called the Karnataka Civil Services (General Recruitment) (Amendment) Rules, 2026, will come into force from the date of their final publication in the Official Gazette.
The amendment follows the draft notification issued on 22 May 2026, inviting objections and suggestions from the public. After considering the objections and suggestions received, the State Government has finalized the rules.
2% Sports Quota for Direct Recruitment
Under the amended Rule 9(1E), 2% of vacancies earmarked for direct recruitment in each of the following categories will be filled from eligible Sports Achievers:
- General Merit (GM)
- Scheduled Castes (SC)
- Scheduled Tribes (ST)
- Other Backward Classes (OBC)
This means the sports quota will operate within the respective categories of vertical reservation.
If sufficient eligible Sports Achievers are not available to fill the 2% quota, the unfilled vacancies will be filled by other candidates belonging to the same category of vertical reservation.
Who is a Sports Achiever?
The rules define a Sports Achiever as a person who:
- Is domiciled in Karnataka for at least 10 years;
- Has participated in specified sports or games at National or International events, either individually or as a team member; and
- Has represented Karnataka in at least one National Championship recognized by the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports, Government of India, or at least one National Games.
The rules also clarify that a candidate may have represented another State or an organisation such as Railways in National Games and still qualify, provided the other eligibility conditions are satisfied.
34 Sports and Games Covered
The sports quota applies to the following 34 sports/games:
| No. | Sports/Games | No. | Sports/Games |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Aquatics | 18 | Hockey |
| 2 | Archery | 19 | Judo |
| 3 | Athletics | 20 | Kabaddi |
| 4 | Badminton | 21 | Kayaking |
| 5 | Basketball | 22 | Kho-Kho |
| 6 | Billiards & Snookers | 23 | Netball |
| 7 | Boxing | 24 | Rowing |
| 8 | Canoeing | 25 | Shooting |
| 9 | Chess | 26 | Sports Climbing |
| 10 | Cricket | 27 | Squash |
| 11 | Cycling | 28 | Table Tennis |
| 12 | Equestrian | 29 | Taekwondo |
| 13 | Fencing | 30 | Tennis |
| 14 | Football | 31 | Triathlon |
| 15 | Golf | 32 | Volleyball |
| 16 | Gymnastics | 33 | Weight Lifting |
| 17 | Handball | 34 | Wrestling |
Sports Achievement Weightage: Up to 50 Marks
One of the most important features of the amendment is the introduction of weightage marks for sports achievements.
Depending on the level of achievement, Sports Achievers can receive between 12 and 50 marks.
Highest Weightage
| Sports Achievement | Weightage |
|---|---|
| Gold Medal – Olympics/Paralympics | 50 marks |
| Silver Medal – Olympics/Paralympics | 49 marks |
| Bronze Medal – Olympics/Paralympics | 48 marks |
| Participation – Olympics/Paralympics | 47 marks |
| Gold – Asian Games/Asian Para Games | 46 marks |
| Silver – Asian Games/Asian Para Games | 45 marks |
| Bronze – Asian Games/Asian Para Games | 44 marks |
| Gold – Commonwealth Games | 43 marks |
| Silver – Commonwealth Games | 42 marks |
| Bronze – Commonwealth Games | 41 marks |
| Participation – Asian Games | 40 marks |
| Participation – Commonwealth Games | 39 marks |
Weightage for World and National-Level Achievements
The rules also provide weightage for several other competitions.
| Achievement | Weightage |
|---|---|
| Gold – World Cup/Para World Cup | 38 |
| Silver – World Cup/Para World Cup | 37 |
| Bronze – World Cup/Para World Cup | 36 |
| Gold – World Championship/Para World Championship | 35 |
| Silver – World Championship/Para World Championship | 34 |
| Bronze – World Championship/Para World Championship | 33 |
| Gold – Asian Championship | 32 |
| Silver – Asian Championship | 31 |
| Bronze – Asian Championship | 30 |
| Gold – Youth Olympics | 29 |
| Silver – Youth Olympics | 28 |
| Bronze – Youth Olympics | 27 |
| Gold – World University Games | 26 |
| Silver – World University Games | 25 |
| Bronze – World University Games | 24 |
| Gold – S.A.F. Games | 23 |
| Silver – S.A.F. Games | 22 |
| Bronze – S.A.F. Games | 21 |
| Gold – National Games | 20 |
| Silver – National Games | 19 |
| Bronze – National Games | 18 |
Other Eligible Achievements
The amendment also provides weightage for senior national championships and university-level competitions:
- Gold – Senior National Championship: 17 marks
- Silver – Senior National Championship: 16 marks
- Bronze – Senior National Championship: 15 marks
- Gold – Khelo India University Games/All India Inter-University Meet: 14 marks
- Silver: 13 marks
- Bronze: 12 marks
How Will Sports Weightage Be Used?
The rules specify how sports weightage will be combined with examination marks.
Competitive Examination
Where recruitment is based on marks obtained in a competitive examination:
50% of the marks obtained in the written examination + sports weightage marks
will be considered for determining relative merit among candidates under the 2% sports quota.
Examination Based on Minimum Educational Qualification
Where selection is based on marks obtained in the examination relating to the minimum educational qualification prescribed for the post:
50% of the examination marks + sports weightage marks
will be considered for determining relative merit.
Minimum Educational Qualification is Mandatory
Sports achievement alone does not make a candidate eligible for a government post.
A Sports Achiever must possess the minimum educational qualification prescribed for the particular post under the applicable recruitment rules.
For example, if a particular post requires a degree, an eligible sports person must also possess the required degree.
Candidates Can Also Apply Under Other Recruitment Rules
The amendment does not prevent Sports Achievers from seeking recruitment through other applicable recruitment rules.
Therefore, eligible sports persons can compete through the normal recruitment process wherever they satisfy the applicable eligibility conditions.
Special Provision for Medal Winners
The rules provide that if a winner of a medal in the:
- Olympics/Paralympics
- Asian Games/Asian Para Games
- Commonwealth Games
has not been recruited under the Karnataka State Civil Services (Recruitment of Persons awarded with medals at Olympics or Paralympics or Asian Games or Asian Para Games or Commonwealth Games to Certain Posts) (Special) Rules, 2023, such a person may seek recruitment under the new sports quota provision.
What Happens if a Candidate Has Multiple Achievements?
If a Sports Achiever has more than one achievement listed in the weightage table, only the weightage marks for the highest achievement will be considered.
For example, if a candidate has achievements carrying 20 marks and 35 marks, the candidate will receive consideration for the 35-mark achievement, rather than adding both achievements together.
Tie-Breaking Rule
If two or more candidates secure equal marks under the sports quota, preference will be given to candidates whose achievement was in an individual event over candidates whose achievement was in a team event.
This provision is particularly important when candidates have identical final marks.
Sports Certificates Will Be Verified
The authenticity of sports achievement certificates is an important requirement.
The Commissioner, Department of Youth Empowerment and Sports can confirm the authenticity of certificates submitted by Sports Achievers when the appointing authority refers them for verification.
The appointing authority can also consult the Commissioner if it has any doubt or difficulty regarding implementation of the sports quota.
Provision for Persons with Disabilities
For Persons with Disabilities (PwD) candidates, the 2% sports quota will be applicable only to posts identified for reservation for Persons with Disabilities by the expert committee constituted under Section 33 of the Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act, 2016.
Government May Issue Further Instructions
The Department of Youth Empowerment and Sports may issue general instructions for effective implementation of the new sports quota provision.
This means detailed procedures relating to verification, implementation and other administrative aspects may be clarified through subsequent government instructions.
Key Highlights at a Glance
| Particular | Details |
|---|---|
| Rules | Karnataka Civil Services (General Recruitment) (Amendment) Rules, 2026 |
| Main Change | 2% Sports Quota |
| Applicable To | Direct Recruitment |
| Categories | GM, SC, ST and OBC |
| Karnataka Domicile | At least 10 years |
| Sports Covered | 34 sports/games |
| Highest Sports Weightage | 50 marks |
| Highest Achievement | Olympic/Paralympic Gold |
| Lowest Weightage in Table | 12 marks |
| Qualification | Minimum qualification for the post is mandatory |
| Multiple Achievements | Highest achievement considered |
| Tie Breaker | Individual event gets priority over team event |
| Certificate Verification | Commissioner, Department of Youth Empowerment and Sports |
| PwD Provision | Applicable to identified PwD posts |
| Effective Date | Date of final publication in Official Gazette |
What This Means for Government Job Aspirants
The amendment is particularly significant for sportspersons who are preparing for Karnataka Government recruitment.
Eligible athletes and players can now benefit from a dedicated 2% sports quota in direct recruitment, subject to the prescribed conditions.
The introduction of achievement-based weightage marks also means that higher-level sporting achievements can substantially improve a candidate's position among eligible candidates competing under the sports quota.
However, candidates should carefully check the specific recruitment notification, prescribed educational qualification, sports certificate requirements and subsequent implementation instructions before applying.
Important Note
The new rules are applicable from the date of their final publication in the Official Gazette. Recruitment to individual posts may also be governed by separate special recruitment rules. Therefore, candidates should read the relevant recruitment notification along with these amended General Recruitment Rules.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. What is the new sports quota in Karnataka Government recruitment?
The amended rules provide 2% reservation in direct recruitment for eligible Sports Achievers in each of the GM, SC, ST and OBC categories.
2. Who is eligible for the sports quota?
A person must satisfy the definition of a Sports Achiever, including the requirement of being domiciled in Karnataka for at least 10 years and meeting the prescribed National/International sports participation and Karnataka representation conditions.
3. How many sports are covered?
The amendment covers 34 sports and games, including athletics, cricket, football, hockey, badminton, chess, wrestling, shooting, volleyball, kabaddi and others.
4. What is the maximum sports weightage?
The maximum weightage is 50 marks, awarded for an Olympic or Paralympic gold medal.
5. Can a candidate add marks for multiple achievements?
No. If a candidate has multiple eligible achievements, the highest achievement weightage will be considered.
6. Is an educational qualification required?
Yes. A Sports Achiever must possess the minimum educational qualification prescribed for the post.
7. Does the sports quota apply only to General Merit candidates?
No. The 2% sports quota is provided within each of the specified categories—GM, SC, ST and OBC, subject to the rules.
8. What happens if there are not enough eligible Sports Achievers?
The unfilled vacancies, to the extent of the 2%, will be filled by other candidates belonging to the same category of vertical reservation.
9. Can Sports Achievers also apply under normal recruitment?
Yes. The amendment specifically states that Sports Achievers are not prevented from seeking recruitment under other applicable recruitment rules.
10. What happens in case of equal marks?
Candidates with achievements in individual events will receive priority over candidates whose achievements are in team events.
11. Who verifies sports certificates?
The Commissioner, Department of Youth Empowerment and Sports may confirm the authenticity of certificates when referred by the appointing authority.
12. When will the amended rules come into force?
The rules will come into force from the date of their final publication in the Official Gazette.
Conclusion
The Karnataka Civil Services (General Recruitment) (Amendment) Rules, 2026 mark an important change in government recruitment by introducing a 2% sports quota for eligible Sports Achievers in direct recruitment. Along with reservation, the rules introduce a structured 12–50 mark sports achievement weightage system, giving greater recognition to athletes who have performed at national and international levels.
For sports persons aspiring to join Karnataka Government service, the new provisions could provide a significant additional opportunity, subject to eligibility, certificate verification and the recruitment rules applicable to the concerned post.
Karnataka Government Introduces 2% Sports Quota in Direct Recruitment: New Rules 2026 Explained
The Government of Karnataka has notified a major amendment to the Karnataka Civil Services (General Recruitment) Rules, 1977, providing a 2% reservation for Sports Achievers in direct recruitment.
The new rules, called the Karnataka Civil Services (General Recruitment) (Amendment) Rules, 2026, will come into force from the date of their final publication in the Official Gazette.
The amendment follows the draft notification issued on 22 May 2026, inviting objections and suggestions from the public. After considering the objections and suggestions received, the State Government has finalized the rules.
2% Sports Quota for Direct Recruitment
Under the amended Rule 9(1E), 2% of vacancies earmarked for direct recruitment in each of the following categories will be filled from eligible Sports Achievers:
- General Merit (GM)
- Scheduled Castes (SC)
- Scheduled Tribes (ST)
- Other Backward Classes (OBC)
This means the sports quota will operate within the respective categories of vertical reservation.
If sufficient eligible Sports Achievers are not available to fill the 2% quota, the unfilled vacancies will be filled by other candidates belonging to the same category of vertical reservation.
Who is a Sports Achiever?
The rules define a Sports Achiever as a person who:
- Is domiciled in Karnataka for at least 10 years;
- Has participated in specified sports or games at National or International events, either individually or as a team member; and
- Has represented Karnataka in at least one National Championship recognized by the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports, Government of India, or at least one National Games.
The rules also clarify that a candidate may have represented another State or an organisation such as Railways in National Games and still qualify, provided the other eligibility conditions are satisfied.
34 Sports and Games Covered
The sports quota applies to the following 34 sports/games:
| No. | Sports/Games | No. | Sports/Games |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Aquatics | 18 | Hockey |
| 2 | Archery | 19 | Judo |
| 3 | Athletics | 20 | Kabaddi |
| 4 | Badminton | 21 | Kayaking |
| 5 | Basketball | 22 | Kho-Kho |
| 6 | Billiards & Snookers | 23 | Netball |
| 7 | Boxing | 24 | Rowing |
| 8 | Canoeing | 25 | Shooting |
| 9 | Chess | 26 | Sports Climbing |
| 10 | Cricket | 27 | Squash |
| 11 | Cycling | 28 | Table Tennis |
| 12 | Equestrian | 29 | Taekwondo |
| 13 | Fencing | 30 | Tennis |
| 14 | Football | 31 | Triathlon |
| 15 | Golf | 32 | Volleyball |
| 16 | Gymnastics | 33 | Weight Lifting |
| 17 | Handball | 34 | Wrestling |
Sports Achievement Weightage: Up to 50 Marks
One of the most important features of the amendment is the introduction of weightage marks for sports achievements.
Depending on the level of achievement, Sports Achievers can receive between 12 and 50 marks.
Highest Weightage
| Sports Achievement | Weightage |
|---|---|
| Gold Medal – Olympics/Paralympics | 50 marks |
| Silver Medal – Olympics/Paralympics | 49 marks |
| Bronze Medal – Olympics/Paralympics | 48 marks |
| Participation – Olympics/Paralympics | 47 marks |
| Gold – Asian Games/Asian Para Games | 46 marks |
| Silver – Asian Games/Asian Para Games | 45 marks |
| Bronze – Asian Games/Asian Para Games | 44 marks |
| Gold – Commonwealth Games | 43 marks |
| Silver – Commonwealth Games | 42 marks |
| Bronze – Commonwealth Games | 41 marks |
| Participation – Asian Games | 40 marks |
| Participation – Commonwealth Games | 39 marks |
Weightage for World and National-Level Achievements
The rules also provide weightage for several other competitions.
| Achievement | Weightage |
|---|---|
| Gold – World Cup/Para World Cup | 38 |
| Silver – World Cup/Para World Cup | 37 |
| Bronze – World Cup/Para World Cup | 36 |
| Gold – World Championship/Para World Championship | 35 |
| Silver – World Championship/Para World Championship | 34 |
| Bronze – World Championship/Para World Championship | 33 |
| Gold – Asian Championship | 32 |
| Silver – Asian Championship | 31 |
| Bronze – Asian Championship | 30 |
| Gold – Youth Olympics | 29 |
| Silver – Youth Olympics | 28 |
| Bronze – Youth Olympics | 27 |
| Gold – World University Games | 26 |
| Silver – World University Games | 25 |
| Bronze – World University Games | 24 |
| Gold – S.A.F. Games | 23 |
| Silver – S.A.F. Games | 22 |
| Bronze – S.A.F. Games | 21 |
| Gold – National Games | 20 |
| Silver – National Games | 19 |
| Bronze – National Games | 18 |
Other Eligible Achievements
The amendment also provides weightage for senior national championships and university-level competitions:
- Gold – Senior National Championship: 17 marks
- Silver – Senior National Championship: 16 marks
- Bronze – Senior National Championship: 15 marks
- Gold – Khelo India University Games/All India Inter-University Meet: 14 marks
- Silver: 13 marks
- Bronze: 12 marks
How Will Sports Weightage Be Used?
The rules specify how sports weightage will be combined with examination marks.
Competitive Examination
Where recruitment is based on marks obtained in a competitive examination:
50% of the marks obtained in the written examination + sports weightage marks
will be considered for determining relative merit among candidates under the 2% sports quota.
Examination Based on Minimum Educational Qualification
Where selection is based on marks obtained in the examination relating to the minimum educational qualification prescribed for the post:
50% of the examination marks + sports weightage marks
will be considered for determining relative merit.
Minimum Educational Qualification is Mandatory
Sports achievement alone does not make a candidate eligible for a government post.
A Sports Achiever must possess the minimum educational qualification prescribed for the particular post under the applicable recruitment rules.
For example, if a particular post requires a degree, an eligible sports person must also possess the required degree.
Candidates Can Also Apply Under Other Recruitment Rules
The amendment does not prevent Sports Achievers from seeking recruitment through other applicable recruitment rules.
Therefore, eligible sports persons can compete through the normal recruitment process wherever they satisfy the applicable eligibility conditions.
Special Provision for Medal Winners
The rules provide that if a winner of a medal in the:
- Olympics/Paralympics
- Asian Games/Asian Para Games
- Commonwealth Games
has not been recruited under the Karnataka State Civil Services (Recruitment of Persons awarded with medals at Olympics or Paralympics or Asian Games or Asian Para Games or Commonwealth Games to Certain Posts) (Special) Rules, 2023, such a person may seek recruitment under the new sports quota provision.
What Happens if a Candidate Has Multiple Achievements?
If a Sports Achiever has more than one achievement listed in the weightage table, only the weightage marks for the highest achievement will be considered.
For example, if a candidate has achievements carrying 20 marks and 35 marks, the candidate will receive consideration for the 35-mark achievement, rather than adding both achievements together.
Tie-Breaking Rule
If two or more candidates secure equal marks under the sports quota, preference will be given to candidates whose achievement was in an individual event over candidates whose achievement was in a team event.
This provision is particularly important when candidates have identical final marks.
Sports Certificates Will Be Verified
The authenticity of sports achievement certificates is an important requirement.
The Commissioner, Department of Youth Empowerment and Sports can confirm the authenticity of certificates submitted by Sports Achievers when the appointing authority refers them for verification.
The appointing authority can also consult the Commissioner if it has any doubt or difficulty regarding implementation of the sports quota.
Provision for Persons with Disabilities
For Persons with Disabilities (PwD) candidates, the 2% sports quota will be applicable only to posts identified for reservation for Persons with Disabilities by the expert committee constituted under Section 33 of the Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act, 2016.
Government May Issue Further Instructions
The Department of Youth Empowerment and Sports may issue general instructions for effective implementation of the new sports quota provision.
This means detailed procedures relating to verification, implementation and other administrative aspects may be clarified through subsequent government instructions.
Key Highlights at a Glance
| Particular | Details |
|---|---|
| Rules | Karnataka Civil Services (General Recruitment) (Amendment) Rules, 2026 |
| Main Change | 2% Sports Quota |
| Applicable To | Direct Recruitment |
| Categories | GM, SC, ST and OBC |
| Karnataka Domicile | At least 10 years |
| Sports Covered | 34 sports/games |
| Highest Sports Weightage | 50 marks |
| Highest Achievement | Olympic/Paralympic Gold |
| Lowest Weightage in Table | 12 marks |
| Qualification | Minimum qualification for the post is mandatory |
| Multiple Achievements | Highest achievement considered |
| Tie Breaker | Individual event gets priority over team event |
| Certificate Verification | Commissioner, Department of Youth Empowerment and Sports |
| PwD Provision | Applicable to identified PwD posts |
| Effective Date | Date of final publication in Official Gazette |
What This Means for Government Job Aspirants
The amendment is particularly significant for sportspersons who are preparing for Karnataka Government recruitment.
Eligible athletes and players can now benefit from a dedicated 2% sports quota in direct recruitment, subject to the prescribed conditions.
The introduction of achievement-based weightage marks also means that higher-level sporting achievements can substantially improve a candidate's position among eligible candidates competing under the sports quota.
However, candidates should carefully check the specific recruitment notification, prescribed educational qualification, sports certificate requirements and subsequent implementation instructions before applying.
Important Note
The new rules are applicable from the date of their final publication in the Official Gazette. Recruitment to individual posts may also be governed by separate special recruitment rules. Therefore, candidates should read the relevant recruitment notification along with these amended General Recruitment Rules.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. What is the new sports quota in Karnataka Government recruitment?
The amended rules provide 2% reservation in direct recruitment for eligible Sports Achievers in each of the GM, SC, ST and OBC categories.
2. Who is eligible for the sports quota?
A person must satisfy the definition of a Sports Achiever, including the requirement of being domiciled in Karnataka for at least 10 years and meeting the prescribed National/International sports participation and Karnataka representation conditions.
3. How many sports are covered?
The amendment covers 34 sports and games, including athletics, cricket, football, hockey, badminton, chess, wrestling, shooting, volleyball, kabaddi and others.
4. What is the maximum sports weightage?
The maximum weightage is 50 marks, awarded for an Olympic or Paralympic gold medal.
5. Can a candidate add marks for multiple achievements?
No. If a candidate has multiple eligible achievements, the highest achievement weightage will be considered.
6. Is an educational qualification required?
Yes. A Sports Achiever must possess the minimum educational qualification prescribed for the post.
7. Does the sports quota apply only to General Merit candidates?
No. The 2% sports quota is provided within each of the specified categories—GM, SC, ST and OBC, subject to the rules.
8. What happens if there are not enough eligible Sports Achievers?
The unfilled vacancies, to the extent of the 2%, will be filled by other candidates belonging to the same category of vertical reservation.
9. Can Sports Achievers also apply under normal recruitment?
Yes. The amendment specifically states that Sports Achievers are not prevented from seeking recruitment under other applicable recruitment rules.
10. What happens in case of equal marks?
Candidates with achievements in individual events will receive priority over candidates whose achievements are in team events.
11. Who verifies sports certificates?
The Commissioner, Department of Youth Empowerment and Sports may confirm the authenticity of certificates when referred by the appointing authority.
12. When will the amended rules come into force?
The rules will come into force from the date of their final publication in the Official Gazette.
Conclusion
The Karnataka Civil Services (General Recruitment) (Amendment) Rules, 2026 mark an important change in government recruitment by introducing a 2% sports quota for eligible Sports Achievers in direct recruitment. Along with reservation, the rules introduce a structured 12–50 mark sports achievement weightage system, giving greater recognition to athletes who have performed at national and international levels.
For sports persons aspiring to join Karnataka Government service, the new provisions could provide a significant additional opportunity, subject to eligibility, certificate verification and the recruitment rules applicable to the concerned post.
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