In a landmark move to overhaul sports governance, the Central Government has introduced comprehensive new regulations for all national sports federations and organizations. The guidelines, notified recently, aim to eradicate corruption, ensure transparency, and promote good governance across the sports ecosystem.
The new framework mandates strict financial accountability, with federations required to maintain audited accounts and disclose funding sources publicly. Office-bearers will face term limits of 12 years, preventing lifelong tenures that have plagued Indian sports administration for decades. Elections must now follow a democratic process with one-member-one-vote principles, doing away with proxy voting systems.
A key highlight is the establishment of an oversight committee under the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports. This body will monitor compliance and has the power to suspend or dissolve non-compliant federations. Athlete representation has been prioritized, with provisions for elected athlete bodies to participate in decision-making at all levels.
The rules also address doping issues head-on, requiring federations to implement robust anti-doping programs aligned with World Anti-Doping Agency standards. Commercial interests cannot override sporting merit, ensuring selections are based purely on performance.
Sports Minister Anurag Thakur emphasized that these reforms will create a level playing field for young athletes and restore India’s global sporting reputation. ‘The days of nepotism and favoritism are over. Sports bodies must serve athletes first,’ he declared during the announcement.
Industry experts hail the move as a game-changer, though some federation officials express concerns over increased government intervention. Implementation will begin immediately, with a three-month grace period for existing bodies to align with the new norms.
As India eyes Olympic glory in Paris 2024 and beyond, these regulations signal a new era of professionalism and accountability in sports administration.