In a significant move to uplift India’s sports scenario, the Modi government is set to roll out a new sports policy aimed at revolutionizing the entire sports ecosystem in the country. With the primary goal of improving India’s performance on global platforms, especially the Olympics, the policy focuses on upgrading sports infrastructure, nurturing young talent, and even hosting major international events like the 2036 Olympics.
This new policy has the potential to transform India’s sports landscape, ensuring that the country makes a strong mark not only in regular sporting events but also on the world stage, including the Olympics.
Aiming for Better Olympic Performance
Indian athletes have shown promise in recent international tournaments. However, the country’s performance in the recent Olympic Games held in Paris was underwhelming, with only six medals. But in a sharp contrast, Indian athletes made history at the Paralympics, winning an impressive 29 medals. India also achieved a significant milestone by clinching gold medals in both the men’s and women’s teams at the Chess Olympiad.
These successes highlight the potential for improvement, and the government wants to build on these achievements with the introduction of the new sports policy. It aims to bring systemic changes that will elevate the performance of Indian athletes on the global stage, with a particular focus on the Olympics.
Suggestions and Draft Policy
The Union Ministry of Sports and Youth Affairs, led by Mansukh Mandaviya, has already released a draft of this new sports policy, which is open to public feedback. The draft, which is available on the ministry’s official website, has invited suggestions from sports experts as well as the general public until October 30. Once the necessary changes are incorporated, the final version of the policy will be implemented, replacing the older policy that has been in place since 2001.
Broad Objectives of the New Sports Policy
The scope of this new sports policy is vast and aims at a comprehensive overhaul of the sports system in India. One of the key features is its integration with the National Education Policy (NEP), making sports education a critical part of the school curriculum. This policy intends to introduce sports education and awareness right from the school level, creating a sports culture from a young age.
The government also plans to develop state-of-the-art sports infrastructure across the country. This includes building stadiums, running tracks, swimming pools, and centers for various sports like archery and shooting. In addition, the policy will focus on identifying young talent and providing them with the necessary training and resources from an early age.
The ultimate goal is not only to improve performance at international events but also to promote sports as a viable career option for youngsters, giving them the tools and opportunities to excel.
Eye on Hosting the Olympics in India
A major highlight of this policy is India’s long-standing ambition to host the Olympics. Prime Minister Narendra Modi has expressed his desire to bring the 2036 Olympic Games to India, with plans already underway to bid for the event. In preparation, India is also working on hosting the 2030 Youth Olympics, as part of its broader strategy to establish itself as a hub for major sporting events.
The government’s new sports policy supports this vision by promoting the hosting of international events, which would not only boost India’s image globally but also inspire the next generation of athletes.
This holistic approach will pave the way for India to make significant strides in the world of sports, bringing the country closer to achieving Olympic glory.
