Union Sports Minister Mansukh Mandaviya announced a new strategy for sports development on Tuesday. During a meeting with the National Sports Federations (NSFs) and the Indian Olympic Association (IOA), to increase India’s medal prospects at the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics. While highlighting the need for public-private partnership models. For planning and infrastructure development, the minister also urged for “greater transparency and accountability” in NSF operations. This is to ensure that athletes do not suffer.
According to those present at the meeting, the ministry would implement a mechanism to rate federations. Based on characteristics such as sporting performance, good governance standards, and so on, as outlined in the Sports Bill. The government also intends to create stadiums and sports facilities at the district and block levels using the public-private partnership model. NSFs will also be encouraged to seek opportunities to expand their sport with the assistance of corporate entities.
The minister recently met with over 40 business companies to pitch. For their support in upgrading district-level sporting facilities, developing cutting-edge academies, and funding training and coaching programs. Sports minister has spoken about the need to minimise litigation. The Sports Bill draft seeks for an Appellate Sports Tribunal to settle disputes. A top federation official stated that the renewal of recognition by the sports ministry would be based on a new ranking system.
Sports Ministry’s Rating System a Political Weapon
According to the official, NSFs would be assessed on various parameters. The ministry would allocate funds based on these ratings. Federations unable to demonstrate adequate performance would face reductions in their financial grants. Another official said, There will be a lot of focus on building new infrastructure in smaller towns, districts, and blocks. Talent hunt programs and national leagues will be launched. Khelo India School-level program is also in the pipeline.
Mandaviya said in a statement, “Our government is very clear that all the federations have to adopt good governance in their functioning. The elections need to be transparent. People have a habit of going to court if they have lost the elections; on the other hand, many individuals keep sticking to their posts.”
