New Delhi
Minister Manusukh Mandaviya held a consultation meeting with key stakeholders on Thursday to discuss the Draft National Sports Governance Bill 2024. The meeting, attended by Indian Olympic Association (IOA) President P.T. Usha, representatives from National Sports Federations (NSFs), and National Sports Promotion Organisations (NSPOs), focused on governance reforms, athlete welfare measures, and the promotion of transparency in sports administration.
Mandaviya described the Draft National Sports Governance Bill as a milestone in creating a robust governance structure in Indian sports that aligns with international standards, including the Olympic and Paralympic Charter. He emphasized the importance of stakeholder engagement in shaping policies that reflect the aspirations of the sports community.
“By empowering athlete-centric federations, introducing the Safe Sports Policy, and establishing an Appellate Sports Tribunal, we aim to elevate our athletes and strengthen India’s position on the global sports stage,” Mandaviya said.
During the consultation, representatives from various NSFs and NSPOs shared their views on proposed reforms, including relaxing age and tenure limits for sports administrators, athlete welfare initiatives, and improving transparency in administration. The discussions also addressed safeguarding athletes’ rights, streamlining the functioning of sports bodies, and enhancing India’s standing in global sports. A source within the meeting noted that all NSFs welcomed the government’s proposal for age and tenure relaxation in the new bill. According to the draft, office bearers of NSFs, including the president, secretary-general, and treasurer, may remain in their positions beyond the age of 70 if they have not completed their tenures
