Union Minister Champions Sports Governance and Athlete Welfare
In a significant gathering aimed at the future of Indian sports, Union Minister of Youth Affairs and Sports, Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya, led the National Sports Federation (NSF) Conclave 2026. The event was attended by Ministers of State for Youth Affairs and Sports, Smt. Raksha Khadse, alongside senior officials from the Ministry, the Sports Authority of India (SAI), and representatives from various National Sports Federations.
Focus on Governance and Athlete Preparation
The conclave’s primary goal was to enhance sports governance, prioritize athlete welfare, and assess India’s readiness for upcoming major international sporting events, including the Asian Games 2026, the Los Angeles Olympics 2028, and the Commonwealth Games 2030. Presentations during the conclave covered crucial topics such as the compliance of National Sports Federations under the newly enacted National Sports Governance Act, 2025, and best practices for sports governance.
Commitment to Athlete Welfare
Dr. Mandaviya emphasized the importance of ensuring that athletes are treated fairly and justly. He stated, “It is our responsibility to ensure that no athlete is ever subjected to injustice of any form.” He advocated for complete transparency in the athlete selection process, insisting that selection trials should be open, recorded on camera, and conducted with diligent oversight to enhance accountability.
Building a Competitive Sports Culture
The Minister also highlighted Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision for fostering a vibrant sports culture in India. He urged all National Sports Federations to focus on creating more competitive opportunities for athletes year-round, enabling them to thrive in their respective sports.
Tackling Doping in Sports
Addressing a crucial issue, Dr. Mandaviya called for a comprehensive strategy to combat doping in Indian sports. He acknowledged the need to strengthen the existing framework and mentioned ongoing government efforts to amend policies that would enhance the effectiveness of the anti-doping system. “We must tackle doping collectively, identifying all parties involved from manufacturers to users to eradicate this menace effectively,” he stated.
Investing in Indigenous Coaching
Furthermore, Dr. Mandaviya stressed the necessity of developing a robust indigenous coaching ecosystem to reduce reliance on foreign coaches. He advocated for the cultivation of a reservoir of skilled Indian coaches, proposing that investment in their training and international exposure will yield world-class athletes for the nation.
Strengthening Governance Standards
Reaffirming the Modi Government’s commitment to sports development, Dr. Mandaviya pledged to collaborate closely with National Sports Federations. He emphasized the need to strengthen governance standards and ensure compliance with the National Sports Governance Act, 2025, in preparation for the upcoming international sporting events.
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