Draft National Sports Policy 2024

Syllabus: GS2/ Governance

Context

• The ministry of youth affairs and sports has unveiled the draft National Sports Policy 2024 for public feedback.

Key Points of the Policy

• Some of the key features of the NSP are;
  • Implementing physical literacy initiatives, 
  • Developing a robust talent identification and development system, 
  • To develop sports and physical literacy as major subjects in educational institutions in alignment with National Education Policy 2020.
• A National Sports Education Board to enhance the recognition and attractiveness of sports as a career option will be founded.
• It calls for policies and schemes to actively encourage extensive participation from the private sector in sports development.

Need for new policy

• The existing NSP was issued in 2001 and it is imperative to formulate a new NSP that encompasses the latest developments in the field of Sports and presents a roadmap to address the present and future challenges.
• Limited Infrastructure: The majority of India’s population, especially in rural areas, has minimal access to sports facilities, coaches, and competitive opportunities.
• Poor Talent Identification: Unlike countries with strong sports systems like the U.S. or China, India lacks an organized, nationwide talent identification program that scouts and nurtures young athletes.
• Political Interference: Political influence in the functioning of sports bodies leads to favoritism, affecting the merit-based selection of athletes and coaches.
• Cost of Training: Many talented athletes from economically weaker sections find it difficult to afford the high costs of professional training and equipment, leading to early dropouts.

Scheme for Promotion of Sports Culture

• Khelo India Scheme: Launched in 2018, it aims to create a robust sports ecosystem at the grassroots level. It provides financial support for training and development, identifying and nurturing talent across different sports.
• The National Sports Talent Search Scheme (NSTSS) is a program by the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports to identify and nurture sports talent in children aged 8–12 years. 
• Sports Infrastructure: India now boasts approximately 100 sports facilities that meet international standards.
  • The National Investment Pipeline (NIP) and the National Monetization Pipeline (NMP) are two key initiatives to further enhance sports infrastructure.
• Target Olympic Podium Scheme (TOPS): It was launched in 2014 with a mission to identify, groom, and prepare potential medal prospects for the Olympics, and to elevate India’s medal prospects. It includes;
  • Elite Athlete Identification
  • Financial Support.

Way Ahead

• Sporting Culture: Cultivating a sporting culture from an early age is crucial. Schools, colleges, and local communities must actively promote sports beyond academics.
• Diverse Sports: Diversifying media coverage and sponsorship to include sports beyond cricket will help build a balanced sports culture.
• Infrastructure Maintenance: Developing infrastructure is essential, but maintaining and upgrading existing facilities is equally important.
• Gender Equality: Ensuring equal access and support for female athletes, along with addressing societal barriers, is vital for improving India’s overall sports performance.

Source: HT