India Unveils National Sports Policy 2025 to Boost Grassroots Development and Global Ambitions

New Delhi - The Indian government has approved the **National Sports Policy 2025**, a comprehensive framework designed to transform the country's sports ecosystem by emphasizing grassroots participation, governance reforms, and international competitiveness. The policy, cleared by the Union Cabinet under Prime Minister Narendra Modi, replaces the 2001 version and aims to integrate sports into education and community life while targeting events like the 2036 Olympics.

According to official statements, the policy focuses on creating synergies between society and sports, with key objectives including enhanced infrastructure in remote areas, improved sports governance, and engagement with the Indian diaspora. It outlines measures to build a full ecosystem from schools to colleges, fostering talent identification and development programs.

"The policy not only aims to build strong synergy between society and sports," noted a statement from a government official, highlighting its role in empowering citizens through athletic pursuits. This aligns with recent announcements, such as Bihar's preparations to host major events including the **Women's Kabaddi World Cup 2025**, **Khelo India Youth Games 2025**, and the **Men's Hockey Asia Cup 2025**.

In Ahmedabad, the policy supports upcoming international competitions, with the city confirmed to host the **2025 Asian Swimming Championships**, **2026 Asian Weightlifting Championships**, and the **2029 World Police and Fire Games**. Targeted bids include the **2027 World Combat Games** and **2028 U20 World Athletics Championships**.

The initiative also addresses sports governance, with the cabinet approving a related bill to ensure transparency and efficiency. This comes amid India's formal bid for the **2030 Commonwealth Games**, approved by the Indian Olympic Association.

Experts view the policy as a step toward establishing India as a global sporting powerhouse, building on recent achievements like Indian athletes' successes in squash, para-archery, and women's football. For instance, **Anahat Singh** and **Aryaveer** claimed titles at the **Asian Squash Championship 2025**, while the women's football team qualified for the **AFC Asian Cup** after a 2-1 victory over Thailand.

• Key Policy Pillars: Grassroots development, diaspora engagement, and infrastructure expansion.
• Major Upcoming Events: Bihar to host four international tournaments in 2025; Ahmedabad slated for multiple championships through 2029.
• Governance Reforms: New bill to streamline sports administration and support Olympic aspirations.

The policy's launch coincides with growing confidence in Indian sports, as evidenced by youth dominance in chess and other disciplines. Officials expect it to drive transformative changes, positioning India prominently on the world stage.