India Hosts High-Level Meetings to Bolster Global Anti-Doping Efforts

New Delhi: Union Minister of Youth Affairs & Sports and Labour & Employment, Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya, chaired the 2nd Formal Meeting of the COP9 Bureau and the 3rd Formal Meeting of the Fund’s Approval Committee under the UNESCO International Convention against Doping in Sport today. These two-day high-level meetings, held in New Delhi, focus on strengthening international collaboration to fight doping and underscore the importance of integrity, fairness, and inclusivity in sports.

Union Minister of State for Youth Affairs and Sports, Ms. Raksha Nikhil Khadse, also attended the event, marking the government’s ongoing commitment to supporting clean sports. The meetings serve as a platform for countries to reinforce partnerships aimed at eliminating doping practices and upholding ethical standards in global sports.

India’s Commitment to Clean Sport

In his opening address, Dr. Mandaviya emphasized India’s leadership in global anti-doping efforts, reiterating the country’s commitment to clean sports. He stressed the importance of international cooperation, invoking the Indian philosophy of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam – the world is one family. “Safeguarding the integrity of sports is a responsibility that transcends borders. It’s about preserving the spirit of fair play for future generations,” he remarked.

Ms. Khadse echoed these sentiments, reaffirming the government’s resolve to nurture a doping-free sports culture. She highlighted the growing global partnerships that India is forming, as part of its broader mission to combat doping at both national and international levels.

Strategic MoU to Strengthen Anti-Doping Law

A highlight of the inaugural session was the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the National Anti-Doping Agency (NADA) and National Law University, Delhi (NLU Delhi). This strategic partnership aims to enhance cooperation in anti-doping law, policy, and education.

The MoU sets the stage for joint certificate courses, academic research, and a series of seminars and workshops designed to raise awareness about anti-doping practices. The collaboration will also focus on fostering a more informed and inclusive approach to combating doping, reinforcing India’s growing influence in this critical area.

Global Dignitaries and Delegations

The event attracted high-level dignitaries from countries such as Azerbaijan, Barbados, Estonia, Italy, Russian Federation, Senegal, Türkiye, United Arab Emirates, and Zambia. These delegates will continue discussions over the next two days, addressing key issues related to the global anti-doping ecosystem and exploring new avenues of cooperation.

India’s Role in Global Sports Governance

The joint meetings highlight India’s increasing role in global sports governance, particularly in promoting ethical sports practices. By hosting such significant events, India continues to solidify its position as a key player in the fight against doping, contributing to the creation of a cleaner and fairer global sporting environment.