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Sports governance and policy in India

By Rohit Kumar Dugar

Sports, rooted in ancient civilizations and epitomized by events like the 3,000-year-old Olympic Games, have historically shaped societies, cultures, and economies, representing dedication and hard work while uniting people globally through massive fan bases. Beyond entertainment, sports promote physical and mental health, discipline, and teamwork, and with widespread accessibility through the internet and television today, they are integral to modern life. Top athletes serve as role models, emphasizing the importance of sports in inspiring individuals to pursue their dreams, and showcasing the enduring legacy of sports. From the early Olympic Games in ancient Greece to diverse sporting events across cultures, the history of sports reveals humanity’s longstanding fascination with physical prowess and competition.

Modern international sporting events, like the 1896 Olympic Games, have further promoted unity and peace among nations through athletic competition. The modern era has seen the growth of professional sports leagues, women’s sports, and events like the Paralympic Games, expanding the global sports landscape and solidifying its role in culture, entertainment, physical fitness, and international relations, capturing people of all backgrounds with values of dedication, teamwork, and the pursuit of excellence.

Evolution in India and early governance structure

The evolution of sports in India reflects the nation’s rich history, culture, and societal changes, encompassing ancient activities like wrestling, archery, and chariot racing, alongside the persistence of traditional indigenous sports such as Kabaddi and Kho-Kho deeply rooted in local culture. During British rule, Western sports like cricket, football, and hockey gained prominence, with cricket becoming a national obsession. Post-Independence, India invested in sports development through institutions like the Sports Authority of India (SAI), participating in international competitions and achieving notable success, particularly in field hockey. Emerging athletes excelled in diverse sports like badminton, boxing, wrestling, and tennis, gaining international recognition. The Indian Premier League (IPL) revolutionized cricket, and investments in infrastructure and grassroots development expanded opportunities. Hosting global sporting events and a growing interest in fitness and wellness, including yoga and Ayurveda, further shaped India’s sporting landscape. In tandem, the early governance structures of sports in India, influenced by a blend of traditional and colonial influences, were marked by local community organization and regulation of sports activities, especially during pre-colonial times, evolving into formal governing bodies and organizations introduced by colonial administrators for Western sports. Post-independence, institutions like the SAI were established to promote and regulate sports at the national level, ultimately contributing to the development of modern sports governance structures in the country.

Contemporary sports governance structures

4.1  Key organizations involved in Sports Governance in India

In India, sports governance encompasses several pivotal organizations tasked with overseeing the administration, regulation, and promotion of diverse sports. Notable among these is the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports (MYAS), the central government body steering sports policies, funding, and infrastructure development. The Sports Authority of India (SAI), as the apex national sports organization, manages training centres, talent identification, and financial support for athletes. The Indian Olympic Association (IOA) oversees India’s participation in international multi-sport events. National Sports Federations (NSFs) govern specific sports disciplines, collaborating with governmental and international bodies. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) governs cricket, and the All India Football Federation (AIFF) manages football. The Indian Premier League (IPL) Governing Council administers the IPL. The National Anti-Doping Agency (NADA) oversees anti-doping efforts, while the National Institute of Sports (NIS) offers coaching and training. State Sports Departments complement these efforts at the state level, collectively shaping India’s sports landscape and nurturing athletes for national and international success.

4.2  Role of Government Bodies and Significance of Sports Federations

Government bodies like the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports play a vital role in shaping India’s sports landscape. They are responsible for formulating and implementing sports policies, providing financial support for infrastructure development, and talent identification programs. These government bodies promote physical fitness and sports at both the grassroots and elite levels, fostering a culture of sportsmanship and nurturing talent. National Sports Federations (NSFs), on the other hand, are crucial in the organization, regulation, and development of specific sports disciplines. They oversee competitions, training programs, and the selection of national teams, ensuring that each sport receives the attention it deserves. Together, the government bodies and NSFs work to promote sports as an essential part of Indian society, encouraging participation, and representing the country on the international stage.

Policy framework for sports in india

5.1  National Sports Policy, Sports Authority of India (SAI) and Initiatives for Talent Identification and Development

The analysis of the National Sports Policy and its revisions offers a critical examination of the evolving framework governing sports in India. This comprehensive assessment delves into the policy’s historical development, its alignment with international standards, and its effectiveness in addressing the country’s sporting challenges. Scrutinizing the revisions and amendments made over the years sheds light on the responsiveness of the policy to changing sporting landscapes and emerging priorities. Additionally, this analysis assesses the extent to which the policy promotes inclusivity, infrastructure development, talent identification, and international competitiveness. It serves as a valuable tool for evaluating the trajectory of sports governance in India and for recommending strategic improvements to further elevate the nation’s standing in the world of sports. The SAI plays a pivotal role in the development and promotion of sports in India. As the apex national sports organization, SAI manages a vast network of training centres, institutes, and academies across the country, providing coaching and infrastructure support to athletes. SAI conducts talent identification programs and offers financial assistance to promising sports talents. It is instrumental in nurturing and honing the skills of athletes, ensuring they receive the necessary resources and guidance to excel on the national and international stage. SAI’s efforts contribute significantly to India’s sports landscape, fostering a culture of sports excellence and supporting athletes in their pursuit of sporting glory. Under the Policy Framework for Sports in India, various initiatives have been established to identify and nurture sporting talent. These programs aim to discover young athletes with exceptional potential and provide them with the necessary support and resources to excel in their chosen sports. Talent identification initiatives include nationwide scouting programs, sports scholarships, and talent development academies. These efforts are integral to identifying and grooming the future stars of Indian sports, ensuring that promising athletes receive the right guidance, coaching, and facilities to compete at the highest levels and bring recognition to the nation on the international stage.

Challenges and issues

Sports governance and policy in India grapple with multifaceted challenges and issues. Firstly, there’s a persistent lack of adequate infrastructure and facilities, hindering the development of sporting talent and the hosting of international events. Secondly, corruption and nepotism have infiltrated various levels of sports administration, impeding fair opportunities and resource allocation. Thirdly, gender disparities persist both in sports governance and participation, with women facing unequal opportunities, representation, and recognition. Lastly, while sports possess the potential to promote social inclusion and diversity, these aspects are often neglected, leaving marginalized communities underrepresented and excluded. Addressing these challenges is essential for India to harness its sporting potential and uphold the principles of fairness and inclusivity in its sports governance and policy landscape.

Example: The wrestling community in India grapples with a multitude of challenges concerning governance and sports policy, casting shadows on the sport’s development and expansion. These hurdles encompass a lack of adequate infrastructure, from training facilities to coaching staff, particularly hindering grassroots growth. Wrestling’s financial sustenance is precarious, with athletes often struggling to secure funding for training, nutrition, and international participation. Effective talent identification programs, especially in remote areas, remain elusive. The dearth of high-quality coaching and development initiatives, compounded by governance disputes, administrative hurdles, limited exposure to competitions, gender disparities, and the challenge of policy implementation, further exacerbates the predicament. Wrestling’s mainstream visibility and support in India lag behind its historical significance, necessitating collaborative efforts among the government, sports authorities, and wrestling organizations to surmount these challenges and pave the path for the sport to flourish and produce elite athletes.

Case studies

In the sphere of sports governance and policy in India, case studies play a pivotal role in shaping future strategies. Firstly, through an examination of successful sports policies from other countries, India can glean inspiration from international best practices. Models such as Australia’s “Sport 2030” plan or the UK’s “Sporting Future” provide valuable insights into the crafting of effective policy frameworks aimed at bolstering grassroots development, talent identification, and infrastructure enhancement. Learning from the experiences of nations with well-established sports systems enables India to refine itspolicies for superior outcomes. Secondly, spotlighting successful sports initiatives within India can serve as a source of motivation and a blueprint for further development. Case studies of programs such as the Khelo India Youth Games, with their focus on identifying and nurturing sporting talent at the grassroots level, can vividly demonstrate the positive impact of government-led initiatives. Furthermore, the showcasing of success stories featuring athletes who have flourished under these programs can serve to inspire budding talents while underscoring the critical importance of sustained investment in sports development. Lastly, an in-depth analysis of the impact of policy changes on specific sports disciplines proves indispensable for tailoring policies to the unique requirements of different sports. For instance, an examination of how policy revisions have influenced the growth of sports like cricket, field hockey, or wrestling can yield valuable insights into the efficacy of specific measures. This level of granularity in analysis empowers policymakers to make well-informed decisions and allocate resources more efficiently, ultimately fostering a more dynamic and inclusive sporting ecosystem in India.

Judgments & case laws

The development of sports law in India has been significantly influenced by landmark judicial decisions. Some of these cases include the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) v Cricket Association of Bihar (CAB) &Ors. (2016), which led to reforms in cricket governance; Mohd. Ashraf v Hockey India (2010), affirming the court’s jurisdiction over sports federations; Zee Telefilms Ltd. v Union of India (2005), establishing the non-monopoly of cricket telecast rights; Randhir Singh v IOA (2010), addressing age and tenure restrictions for sports officials; Hockey India v Rajinder Singh (2012), ordering the reinstatement of a suspended player; Usha Rani v State of Karnataka (2011), emphasizing sports authorities’ responsibility for athlete welfare; Indian Olympic Association v K. Narayana Rao (2003), highlighting fair athlete selection; PIL for Sports Facilities (2005), addressing sports infrastructure deficiencies; Dutee Chand vs. Athletics Federation of India (AFI) (2015), setting a precedent for hyperandrogenism regulations; and cases related to sports quotas, age fraud, anti-doping, sports broadcasting rights, and sports betting and match-fixing. These rulings have shaped sports governance, policies, and gender equality, emphasizing transparency and the rule of law in Indian sports administration.

Suggestions

Enhancing sports governance and policy in India entails several crucial steps: First, implementing transparency measures, independent audits, and anti-corruption initiatives within sports organizations is imperative. Second, promoting gender equality in decision-making roles and addressing disparities in sports funding are essential for a more equitable system. Third, substantial investments in grassroots sports development, talent identification, and tailored training programs are needed. Fourth, encouraging private sector engagement, fostering international collaborations, and reinforcing anti-doping measures are crucial for a comprehensive approach. Fifth, integrating sports into the education system, harnessing technology for efficient management, and conducting nationwide awareness campaigns are vital components. Lastly, maintaining a dynamic legal framework and establishing robust athlete support systems will collectively contribute to a more inclusive, competitive, and vibrant sporting ecosystem in India.

In conclusion, the study on sports governance and policy in India reveals the multifaceted significance of sports, spanning health, diplomacy, economics, and societal unity. While examining the historical evolution of sports in India and its early governance structures, we understand the profound impact sports have had on the nation’s identity and well-being. Contemporary sports governance structures, including government bodies and national sports federations, play pivotal roles in shaping the sports landscape. The analysis of the National Sports Policy and initiatives like the Sports Authority of India highlights the critical role of policy in talent identification and development. However, India faces significant challenges, from inadequate infrastructure and corruption to gender disparities and under-representation of marginalized communities. The study emphasizes the importance of transparency, gender equality, grassroots development, private sector involvement, international collaborations, and technology adoption. Landmark judicial decisions have also shaped sports governance in India. The article’s suggestions offer a roadmap for enhancing sports governance and policy, ultimately fostering a more inclusive, competitive, and vibrant sporting ecosystem in the nation.

—Rohit Kumar Dugar is a fifth-year B Com LL.B (H) student of Xavier Law School, St Xavier’s University, Kolkata

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