Cabinet approves new national sports policy

New Delhi

The Union Cabinet, chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, has approved the new National Sports Policy, aimed at transforming India into a global sporting powerhouse. Replacing the 2001 policy, the newly approved framework is designed to enhance sports infrastructure, promote grassroots participation, and elevate India’s performance on the international stage, including the 2036 Olympic Games.

Announcing the development, the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports described the policy as a “visionary and strategic roadmap” that will not only boost athlete development but also foster a strong sports culture nationwide. Youth Affairs and Sports Minister Mansukh Mandviya posted on X, “This landmark policy outlines a strategic roadmap to promote sports culture at the grassroots, enhance infrastructure, support athlete development, and establish India as a formidable force in global sports.”

The Cabinet also cleared major proposals to spur research and employment in emerging industries. A significant highlight was the approval of a ₹1 lakh crore fund to promote research, development, and innovation in sunrise sectors such as green technology, semiconductor manufacturing, and artificial intelligence. The initiative aims to position India at the forefront of technological advancement.

Additionally, Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw unveiled details of the Employment Linked Incentive Scheme, which will focus on boosting job creation in the manufacturing sector. “The scheme has two parts—support for first-time job creators and incentives for sustained employment,” he explained during the briefing. Together, these decisions signal the government’s commitment to holistic national growth through sports excellence, innovation, and job creation.