National Sports Governance and Anti-Doping Amendment Bills

Context:

Recently, the Parliament passed the National Sports Administration Bill, 2025 and the National Anti-Doping (Amendment) Bill, 2025, which aim to improve the sports ecosystem in India. Now these bills have been sent for the President's assent.

Key Features of the National Sport Governance Bill:

· Establishment of National Sports Board (NSB): The bill proposes the establishment of a National Sports Board (NSB) to oversee sports federations, including the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI).

· Recognition and Funding: All National Sports Federations (NSFs) must secure NSB recognition to access central government funding.

· Accountability and Governance: The NSB will have the mandate to de-recognize a national body that fails to hold elections or commits gross irregularities in election procedures.

· National Sports Tribunal: The bill proposes a National Sports Tribunal with civil court powers to adjudicate disputes ranging from athlete selection to federation elections.

Key Features of the National Anti-Doping Amendment Bill:

· Operational Independence: The bill grants greater operational independence to the National Anti-Doping Agency (NADA) in line with World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) guidelines.

· Addressing WADA Concerns: The amendment addresses WADA's concerns regarding government interference in NADA's functioning.

· Anti-Doping Efforts: The bill aims to strengthen anti-doping efforts in India and ensure compliance with international standards.

Impact and Significance:

· Transforming Sports Ecosystem: The passage of these bills is expected to transform the sports ecosystem in India, promoting transparency, accountability, and good governance in sports.

· 2036 Olympic Bid: The bills are seen as crucial steps in India's bid for the 2036 Olympic Games, demonstrating the country's commitment to creating a world-class sports ecosystem.

· Addressing Long-standing Gaps: Efforts to create a robust sports governance law date back to 1975, with multiple failed attempts due to political hurdles. This Bill finally delivers on decades of unfinished reforms.

· Promoting Gender Inclusion: Provisions ensure greater participation of women in sports federations and leadership roles.

· Enhancing Performance: By enforcing accountability and reducing political interference, the Bills aim to improve India’s performance in global sports events.

· Athlete Welfare: The bills aim to promote athlete welfare, ensure fair play, and provide a framework for resolving sports disputes.

Conclusion

Both Bills mark significant steps toward reforming sports governance and ensuring clean sports in India. However, given the lack of in-depth parliamentary debate, concerns over implementation, especially related to autonomy and oversight, are likely to be discussed further in the Rajya Sabha.