Historic National Sports Governance Bill Passed in India

A New Era for Sports Governance in India

New Delhi [India], August 13: Hockey India has expressed its approval following the passage of the National Sports Governance Bill in Parliament, marking a significant milestone for sports administration in the country. This groundbreaking legislation represents India's first comprehensive legal framework for sports governance, fulfilling long-standing demands for reform, as stated by Hockey India officials.

Efforts to create such a robust law have been in progress for over a decade, dating back to 2011. Despite numerous drafts and attempts, a bill of this magnitude had never been approved by Parliament until now. This achievement is attributed to the visionary leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the dedicated efforts of Union Sports Minister Mansukh Mandaviya, whose commitment has led to the most substantial reform in sports governance in India.

The National Sports Governance Bill introduces a new standard of transparency, accountability, and ethical management within the sports sector. It establishes clear guidelines for National Sports Federations and the Indian Olympic Association, ensuring fair election processes, financial transparency, and inclusive representation.

Notably, the bill mandates the formation of athlete commissions, providing players with a significant voice in governing bodies, and requires a minimum of thirty percent representation for women to promote gender equality in sports administration. With strong measures to protect athlete welfare—especially for women and minors—and strict anti-doping regulations, the bill prioritizes the rights and needs of athletes in Indian sports.

Furthermore, the Bill's alignment with the Olympic and Paralympic Charters underscores India's ambition not only to compete but to lead on the global sports stage, particularly as the nation aims to host the 2036 Olympic Games and achieve developed-nation status by 2047. By embedding best practices into law, the Bill provides a clear framework where transparent governance, gender equality, and efficient conflict resolution become standard practices.

Dilip Tirkey, President of Hockey India, described the passage of the Bill as a pivotal moment for Indian sports. He stated, “This is a truly historic day. For the first time, India’s sporting world is anchored by a clear, athlete-centered, and transparent legal framework. This reform will inspire new confidence among athletes and all stakeholders, creating a governance model aligned with global standards. Under the leadership of our Hon’ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi and the unwavering vision of the Sports Minister Shri Mansukh Mandaviya, Indian sport now stands ready to excel at the highest international stage.”

Hockey India Secretary General Bhola Nath Singh remarked, “The vision behind this Bill is nothing short of transformational. It guarantees that all sports entities function with integrity, clarity, and fairness, and that athletes finally have formal representation and real protection. Bringing all sports organizations under the Right to Information Act and ensuring compliance with international anti-doping and ethical standards will secure Indian sport’s reputation on the world stage.”