New Delhi, Feb 26 – In a significant move aimed at strengthening India’s sports infrastructure, the Ministry of Sports has constituted a six-member committee to revise the financial assistance norms for National Sports Federations (NSFs). This revision is in response to emerging challenges and aligns with India’s ambitious bid to host the 2036 Olympic Games.
The committee, chaired by Joint Secretary (Sports) Kunal, includes key figures such as Executive Director (Teams) Ritu Pathik, Target Olympic Podium Scheme (TOPS) CEO N S Johal, former TOPS CEO Commodore (Retd) P K Garg, and Indian Weightlifting Federation (IWF) President Sahdev Yadav, who also serves as the Treasurer of the Indian Olympic Association (IOA).
Reviewing Financial Assistance for NSFs
A note from the sports ministry, addressed to all committee members, highlighted the necessity for revising financial assistance norms under the Scheme of Assistance to NSFs, which was last updated on February 28, 2022. The initiation of a new Olympic cycle, coupled with India’s aspirations for the 2036 Olympics, has made it imperative to reassess these norms.The ministry's circular stated, "Evolving circumstances demand a comprehensive review to address emerging challenges and India's aspiration to host the 2036 Olympic Games." Accordingly, the newly formed committee will propose revised funding norms across various categories under the scheme.
India’s Olympic Aspirations
In November 2023, India officially submitted a Letter of Intent to the International Olympic Committee’s (IOC) Future Host Commission, marking the country’s first concrete step towards hosting the Olympics. The revision of NSF funding norms is expected to play a crucial role in ensuring adequate support for national federations, athletes, and training programs in the lead-up to the global sporting event.Funding and Governance Reforms
The latest annual budget has earmarked ₹400 crore for NSF assistance, reflecting a marginal increase from ₹340 crore allocated last year. This funding supports multiple objectives, including organizing domestic and international tournaments, purchasing equipment, and conducting coaching programs.However, the specifics of the committee’s mandate remain undisclosed. Notably, the formation of this panel follows discussions within the ministry regarding a graded funding system. Under this proposed system, only NSFs adhering to the good governance norms of the draft National Sports Bill would receive their full share of ministry grants.
A senior ministry official remarked, “If an NSF is fully compliant with governance norms, it will receive its entire share of funding. However, non-compliance may lead to funding cuts. While this is under consideration, it could significantly improve transparency and NSF performance.”
Proposed Sports Regulatory Board Sparks Debate
The draft National Sports Bill, expected to be tabled in Parliament soon, seeks to introduce Ethics and Dispute Resolution Commissions to enhance transparency in sports administration. Additionally, it proposes a Sports Regulatory Board to oversee NSF recognition and ensure compliance with governance, financial, and ethical standards.However, this proposal has sparked a debate, particularly with Indian Olympic Association (IOA) President PT Usha, who believes the board could undermine the IOA's authority and be perceived as government interference by the IOC.
Looking Ahead
The revision of NSF funding norms, along with the ongoing discussions on governance reforms, underscores India's commitment to creating a more transparent and performance-driven sports ecosystem. As the country eyes the 2036 Olympic Games, these policy changes could play a pivotal role in shaping the future of Indian sports.
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