Govt’s new sports policy to encourage Indian-origin athletes abroad to represent country

In a significant move to bolster India's presence on the international sports stage, the government has introduced a new sports policy aimed at encouraging Indian-origin athletes residing abroad to represent the nation. This policy shift comes as part of broader efforts to tap into the vast pool of athletic talent within the global Indian diaspora. By allowing these athletes to compete, India hopes to enhance its competitive edge in various sports disciplines. Currently, Indian sports regulations permit only passport holders to compete under the national flag. However, the Ministry of Sports has been considering the revocation of this restriction, recognizing the potential benefits of including athletes with Indian heritage but foreign citizenship. This change could pave the way for greater diversity and skill within national teams, potentially elevating India's performance in international competitions. The proposed policy has been met with a mix of excitement and cautious optimism from the sports community. Advocates highlight the opportunity to strengthen India's sporting prowess, while critics urge careful implementation to maintain fair selection processes. As the government moves forward with these plans, the focus remains on balancing national pride with the inclusive spirit of sportsmanship, aiming to create a more robust and diverse representation for India on the world stage.

— Authored by Next24 Live