French sporting goods retailer Decathlon has been given the green light to proceed with an investment plan for India.

Decathlon plans to invest US$130 million to open its own retail stores across the country.

The company has been in India for sometimes as wholesaler, operating cash-and-carry stores, which sell products to companies, associations, retailers and resellers.

Decathlon, a part of Oxylane Group, was founded in 1976 in France with the goal of making products for sports enthusiasts as well as professionals. It has around 600 stores around the world.