Rouf Ahmed Bhat
The evolution of India’s sports policies reflects a growing recognition of the vital role sports play in national development and international diplomacy. From the first National Sports Policy introduced in 1984 to the proposed National Sports Policy 2025, the journey has been marked by a consistent push toward promoting excellence, integrity, and transparency in the field.
The upcoming National Sports Governance Bill 2025, introduced in Parliament by Union Minister for Youth Affairs and Sports, Mansukh Mandaviya, is a landmark move aimed at transforming the governance structure of Indian sports, especially in view of the nation’s bid to host the 2036 Summer Olympics.
The bill proposes sweeping reforms that include the establishment of a National Sports Board (NSB) to oversee federations, the formation of a dedicated National Sports Tribunal (NST) for dispute resolution, and crucially, bringing sports bodies under the Right to Information (RTI) Act, thereby promoting transparency and accountability.
It also makes athlete welfare central to its goals, mandating athlete representation in administrative roles, safeguarding rights, and ensuring merit-based, timely selections. These provisions align India’s sports governance with international standards, aiming to boost the country’s global competitiveness and foster a cleaner, athlete-centric sports ecosystem.
IMPACT
Among the bill’s key proposals is the relaxation of age restrictions for officials representing India in international sports federations. The age cap for executive committee members has been increased from 70 to 75 years.
Equally noteworthy is the absence of tenure restrictions. Office bearers can now serve two consecutive four-year terms, followed by a mandatory four-year cooling-off period. Post that, they may again serve another two terms — allowing a total tenure of up to 16 years. While this offers continuity, it has raised concerns about potential power consolidation.
The criminal background clause, however, appears to have been put on hold, which implies that individuals facing criminal charges may still be eligible to contest for leadership positions in sports bodies — a point likely to stir debate among reformists.
A major reform is the formation of the National Sports Tribunal, which will serve as an exclusive forum for resolving disputes within the sports sector — promising fairness, speed, and transparency in adjudication.
Perhaps the most impactful measure is the decision to bring all national sports bodies, including the BCCI, under the RTI Act. This move is expected to dismantle administrative opacity and usher in an era of public accountability, especially in high-profile and financially robust federations.
The proposed National Sports Board (NSB) will function as the apex regulatory body with powers to grant recognition, monitor compliance, and de-recognize non-compliant sports federations. Another clause states that failure to conduct timely elections in accordance with the new policy will result in de-recognition — a clear push towards organizational discipline.
EXPECTATIONS
While the bill is being widely seen as a significant reformative step, certain provisions may require further refinement and clarity — particularly around tenure limits, eligibility criteria, and implementation mechanisms.
Nonetheless, the National Sports Governance Bill 2025 is poised to positively transform Indian sports. Its emphasis on good governance, athlete welfare, and institutional accountability can help foster a more inclusive and performance-driven sports culture.
With mechanisms for safe sport, grievance redressal, and athlete representation built into its framework, the bill aspires to create a safe, supportive, and empowering environment for Indian athletes to excel — both at home and on the global stage(DD)
