In a landmark step for Indian sports, Parliament has passed the National Sports Governance Act, 2025, introducing a comprehensive framework aimed at ensuring transparency, accountability, and athlete welfare across the country’s sporting bodies. The legislation is being hailed as one of the most significant reforms in India’s sports administration in decades.
Key Features of the Act
The Act establishes clear guidelines for the functioning of national sports federations and associations. It mandates:
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Transparency in elections of sporting bodies, with limits on tenure for office bearers.
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Athlete representation in decision-making committees to safeguard player interests.
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Financial accountability, with annual audits and stricter oversight on sponsorship deals.
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Dispute resolution mechanisms, allowing grievances to be settled quickly through an independent tribunal.
Officials believe these measures will curb long-standing problems of nepotism, mismanagement, and corruption in sports governance.
Focus on Athlete Welfare
The Act places special emphasis on athlete rights and welfare, making it mandatory for federations to provide proper contracts, insurance cover, and safeguards against harassment. This marks a significant shift from a system where players often had limited say in organisational matters.
Government’s Position
Union Sports Minister welcomed the passage of the bill, calling it a “turning point in Indian sports administration.” He stressed that the reforms will align Indian sports governance with global best practices, thereby improving India’s standing in international competitions.
“The future of Indian sports rests not only on the talent of our athletes but also on the fairness and efficiency of our systems. This Act ensures that our governance is worthy of our players’ aspirations,” he said.
Reactions from Sporting Community
Athletes and experts have reacted positively to the move. Several former Olympians described the Act as long overdue, noting that India’s growing international sporting ambitions—particularly its aim to host the 2036 Olympics—require robust institutional reforms. Sports associations, while welcoming the bill, have asked for clarity on funding provisions and transition timelines.
With the passage of the National Sports Governance Act, 2025, India has taken a decisive step toward professionalising and modernising its sports administration. The real test will lie in its implementation, but stakeholders believe the framework can create a more athlete-friendly and transparent ecosystem in the years ahead.
