New Delhi: With an eye on India’s performance at the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics, Union Minister for Youth Affairs & Sports and Labour & Employment, Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya, urged National Sports Federations (NSFs) to prioritize good governance, transparency, and accountability. Speaking at a roundtable meeting in New Delhi, the Minister emphasized the need for a robust sports ecosystem that supports athletes and minimizes disruptions caused by litigation and organizational inefficiencies.
Dr. Mandaviya underlined the importance of ensuring that elections within NSFs are conducted transparently and fairly. He expressed concern over disputes and individuals clinging to posts, which he said hamper athletes’ preparation and development. “Our athletes represent the nation, not an organization. Good governance in federations is crucial for creating a conducive environment for their success,” he remarked.
The Minister also called for a collective effort to enhance India’s sports infrastructure and pool resources to strengthen the nation’s chances of hosting the 2036 Olympics. “If we want to improve our medal tally in Los Angeles 2028 and aim for hosting the 2036 Olympics, every stakeholder must think of the nation first,” he added.
Dr. Mandaviya highlighted India’s immense potential for nurturing sporting talent, pointing out the country’s vast topography and natural advantages. “Our coastline of over 7,000 kilometers can produce world-class swimmers, while tribal areas are a natural hub for talents in sports like archery. We must create a system that identifies and nurtures such talent from the grassroots,” he said.
Programs like Khelo India were cited as key platforms for developing athletes at all stages, alongside a call for academy-driven approaches to talent development. The Minister urged NSFs to collaborate with the private sector and leverage Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiatives to enhance facilities, training, and coaching standards.
The Union Minister also emphasized the need to improve the quality of Indian coaches by providing them with international exposure and training. Efforts are underway to develop a plan to enhance coaching standards, ensuring athletes receive world-class guidance.
Dr. Mandaviya discussed plans to optimize the contribution of government officials recruited under the sports quota in Central Government Departments and PSUs. He stressed the importance of their active participation in sports-related activities to bolster India’s sports ecosystem.
Senior representatives of all recognized NSFs attending the meeting expressed their support for the government’s initiatives. They agreed to adopt measures for greater transparency and lauded the focus on creating a supportive environment for athletes to achieve global success.
The meeting concluded with a call for a united approach to propel India toward greater heights in the global sporting arena.