New Delhi, June 24 -- Rugby India President Rahul Bose revealed that the Rugby Federation has begun providing financial compensation to Indian players selected for the national camps, as part of broader efforts to support grassroots talent.

Under Bose's leadership, Rugby India launched the inaugural edition of the Rugby Premier League (RPL), India's first-ever franchise-based rugby competition, which began on June 15.

The RPL, touted as the world's first franchise-format rugby league, has six founding franchises in the opening edition. The franchises in the competition are Bengaluru Bravehearts, Chennai Bulls, Delhi Redz, Hyderabad Heroes, Kalinga Black Tigers, and the Mumbai Dreamers.

Speaking to ANI, Rahul Bose said, "As a federation...