New Delhi: With 2026 shaping up to be a defining year for Indian sport, Union Sports Minister Mansukh Mandaviya has laid out an ambitious roadmap aimed at strengthening the country’s sporting ecosystem and improving global competitiveness. During a high level review meeting with senior officials from the Sports Authority of India and the Ministry, Mandaviya stressed the need for clear delivery driven targets, innovation and strict action against doping.
The year ahead holds major significance for Indian athletes, with the Commonwealth Games and Asian Games forming the centrepiece of a packed international calendar. It will also mark the beginning of Olympic qualification cycles in key disciplines such as shooting and hockey. Against this backdrop, the minister called for early and focused planning to ensure India remains competitive across events.
A key priority outlined in the meeting was the creation of dedicated Olympic Centres for every sport across the country. The initiative is aimed at providing athletes with world class training infrastructure and specialised support systems. Mandaviya also underlined the importance of launching national leagues in at least five new sports during the year, a move expected to expand the talent pool and offer athletes more competitive exposure.
To ensure accountability, the minister directed officials to clearly define annual priorities and measurable outcomes. Regular review meetings with senior and mid level officers are planned to track progress and encourage fresh ideas to improve governance, infrastructure and athlete support.
Doping emerged as a major area of concern during the discussions. India has struggled with repeated anti doping violations in recent years, and Mandaviya made it clear that the issue must be addressed decisively. Authorities have been instructed to intensify awareness campaigns among athletes and support staff, while ensuring strict action against repeat offenders.
The minister also expressed interest in encouraging greater participation from the private sector. He emphasised support for private sports academies, particularly in areas such as sports science, coaching expertise and high performance training.
With long term ambitions that include hosting the 2030 Commonwealth Games and bidding for the 2036 Olympic Games, Mandaviya’s push signals a results focused approach aimed at reshaping Indian sport ahead of a crucial phase.
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