Explore the issues, challenges, and reforms needed to improve sports governance in India. Learn how transparency and athlete protection are vital for the future.
theIASHub | 05 Jun, 2025 | 3083
Sports Governance in India is a pressing issue that has come under intense scrutiny following recent controversies, including the sexual harassment case involving the former Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) chief. These events have sparked concerns about the transparency, accountability, and effectiveness of sports governance in the country.
Sports Governance in India suffers due to the inefficiency and lack of autonomy in NSFs. These federations are intended to function independently with democratic principles. However, nepotism, favoritism, and political interference have deeply rooted themselves within their structure. Some federations are led by the same individual or family for decades without fair elections or term limits.
Corruption is another major hurdle in Sports Governance in India. From the 2010 Commonwealth Games scams to the 2013 IPL spot-fixing scandal, the misuse of funds and unethical practices have continuously dented the credibility of Indian sports institutions.
Effective sports governance in India demands collaboration among the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports (MYAS), Sports Authority of India (SAI), Indian Olympic Association (IOA), NSFs, state governments, and private sectors. However, the current ecosystem lacks seamless coordination.
The lack of proper representation for athletes, especially women, is a glaring flaw. Recent incidents show that grievances of female athletes often go unheard. The absence of strong redressal mechanisms in sports governance in India further deepens the problem.
The BCCI recently amended its constitution to remove the mandatory cooling-off period for office bearers. Such moves hinder reform and raise serious concerns about administrative monopolies within sports governance in India.
India needs a robust and enforceable sports law to govern all aspects of sports without arbitrary powers being concentrated in a few hands. Proposals like the Sports Development Bill, 2011, aimed to introduce fair elections and accountability, but have yet to see the light of day.
Sports governance in India must ensure that 25% of board members in sports bodies are eminent athletes, and no office bearer continues beyond the age of 70.
We should adopt global practices like those of World Athletics, which ensures 40% female representation in decision-making bodies. Additionally, the Sexual Harassment of Women at Workplace Act, 2013 must be strictly enforced within the sports sector.
Grassroot-level reforms, athlete empowerment, and sports education will improve transparency and trust in sports governance in India. Regular audits, proper budgeting, and public disclosures should be mandatory.
For sports governance in India to be effective, it must be transparent, democratic, and athlete-centric. The country needs immediate structural reforms, strong legal backing, gender-sensitive policies, and active stakeholder participation. Only then can India foster a sporting culture based on merit, ethics, and inclusiveness.
Refine your answer writing skills and elevate your UPSC preparation with personalized support and expert feedback.
Fill out the form to get started with the program or any other enquiries !
Are you dreaming of becoming an IAS officer? Then, IAShub can be your best guide. It is one of the Best IAS Coaching in Delhi. Many students who want to clear the UPSC exam join IAShub for learning. The institute gives both online and offline classes. Their teachers are experienced and helpful. They easily explain every topic. Students also get notes, tests, and tips to do well in the exam.
IAShub is in Delhi and is trusted by many UPSC students. It offers coaching for every part of the UPSC exam – Prelims, Mains, and Interview. The classes are simple and easy to understand. The teachers are experts and guide students in the right way. IAShub is also known for its helpful notes, test series, and answer-writing practice. IAShub is the best coaching in Delhi and also gives UPSC Online Classes. This helps students from any place in India to learn. The online classes are live and also recorded. So, students can watch them anytime. These classes cover the full UPSC syllabus.
Here are some important services provided by IAShub:
The UPSC Civil Services Exam has three parts:
This exam is tough, but with the right guidance, it becomes easy to manage. Students must study smart and stay regular.
IAShub supports students from the beginning to the end. It gives the right books, tests, and notes. The classes are easy to follow, and the teachers are always ready to help. Students get personal doubt sessions too. The test series and answer checking help students learn where they need to do better. Also, free study materials save time and money.
IAShub also guides students during the final stage – the interview. Experts take mock interviews and give useful tips. This full support makes IAShub one of the best IAS coaching in Delhi.
Detailed Solutions & Explanations
Improve Your Answer Writing & Strategy
