India Passes National Sports Governance Act 2025 to Boost Transparency in Sports Administration
NEW DELHI - India's parliament has approved the National Sports Governance Act 2025, marking a significant reform aimed at increasing accountability, transparency, and athlete representation within the country's sports federations.
The legislation, which builds on the recently introduced National Sports Policy 2025, introduces measures such as the establishment of specialized game courts for dispute resolution and mechanisms to ensure stronger involvement of athletes in decision-making processes. It replaces outdated frameworks and aligns with broader efforts to modernize sports governance under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
Key provisions of the act include:
- Mandatory transparency in financial dealings and operations of sports bodies.
- Athlete-centric policies, ensuring representation for players in administrative roles.
- Dispute resolution systems to handle conflicts efficiently and fairly.
Officials have stated that the act will foster a more inclusive environment, potentially engaging the Indian diaspora in national teams and supporting the growth of sports at grassroots levels. This comes amid preparations for major events, including the hosting of international championships in cities like Ahmedabad and Bihar.
The policy it stems from emphasizes synergy between society and sports, with goals to empower citizens and elevate India's global sporting profile. The act's passage has been welcomed as a step toward reforming sports administration, addressing long-standing issues in areas like cricket, football, and emerging leagues.
