New Delhi, February 27
In a significant move to strengthen India's sports coaching and officiating ecosystem, Sports Minister Mansukh Mandaviya on Thursday launched a special capacity-building course in collaboration with the Netaji Subhas National Institute of Sports (NSNIS), Patiala. This initiative aims to equip current and former elite athletes with the skills to become coaches, referees, and sports officials, addressing the growing demand for home-grown sports professionals.
Course Structure and Eligibility
The program is tailored for athletes employed in central government, autonomous bodies, and Public Sector Undertakings (PSUs). Eligible candidates include:
- Olympic, World Championship, Asian Games, and Commonwealth Games participants or medalists
- Medal winners in Youth Olympics, Junior World Championship, World University Games, Senior National Championships, and National Games
Additionally, a minimum graduation or equivalent degree from a recognized Indian university is required.
The course follows a four-tier certification system with levels ranging from foundation to advanced, allowing candidates to gain progressive expertise in sports training and officiating.
Flexible Learning and Credit-Based System
The program is structured to accommodate working professionals, with candidates having up to two years to complete each level. It will be offered in two modes:- Hybrid mode: 2 weeks online + 4 weeks offline
- Fully offline mode
Minister’s Vision for Sports Development
Highlighting India's shortage of trained sports professionals, Mandaviya emphasized the crucial role of coaches in an athlete’s career."We are facing a crisis of good coaches, referees, and trainers. This program will bridge that gap by providing six-week training courses. Those who pass will become coaches or referees, contributing to various sports-related fields. The government will also send some candidates abroad for further training," he said.
The course will integrate subjects like modern coaching techniques, sports science, yogasana, and leadership, preparing athletes to thrive within the sports ecosystem.
Annual Sports Calendar and 2028 Olympics Strategy
Mandaviya also announced that his ministry is working on an annual sports calendar for approximately 15 different games, ensuring organized and structured competitions."We will establish a fixed schedule for Khelo India events such as the Summer Games, Winter Games, Snow Games, Beach Games, Northeast Games, and Tribal Games. For example, the Beach Games will continue to be hosted in Diu," he stated.
In preparation for the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics, a three-day brainstorming session (Chintan Baithak) will be held in Hyderabad from March 7 to 9. The meeting will bring together state sports ministers, sports secretaries, Indian Olympic Association (IOA) members, and sports experts to develop a comprehensive strategy for India's Olympic ambitions.
This initiative underscores India's commitment to building a robust sporting infrastructure and nurturing a pipeline of skilled coaches and officials, ensuring sustained excellence in global competitions.
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