Mandaviya wants unity for Olympics bid

New Delhi

India’s Sports Minister Mansukh Mandaviya has urged all National Sports Federations (NSFs) to work together and focus on athletes as the country aims to host the 2036 Olympics and the 2030 Commonwealth Games.

At a ceremony to launch Digilocker certificates, Mandaviya said NSFs must not ignore athletes’ needs. He warned against nepotism and fights within sports bodies, saying such actions hurt players and damage India’s chances on the global stage.

“I don’t like interfering, but NSFs must not forget that they exist to support athletes,” the minister said. “Fights and favoritism won’t be allowed.”

Many NSFs have faced issues. Boxing has an ad-hoc panel, while football and equestrian cases are in court. Wrestling’s ban was lifted recently after problems with rules.

Mandaviya assured NSFs of full support, including office space at Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium. But he also shared a story about one official listing his peon as secretary, saying sports management must be serious and fair.

“We should stand united on international platforms. That’s the only way to bring the 2036 Olympics and 2030 CWG to India,” he said.

Though his strong words made some officials uncomfortable, Mandaviya made it clear: athlete welfare must be the top priority. The government wants to help, but good governance must come first.