Neeraj Chopra, Coaches Call for Improved Sports Infrastructure, Empowerment of Indian Coaches
During a consultation meeting with the Sports Ministry on the Draft National Sports Governance Bill, star athletes and coaches emphasized the need for enhanced sports infrastructure and the empowerment of Indian coaches.
Olympic medalist Neeraj Chopra highlighted the dilapidated state of the athletics track at the National Institute of Sports (NIS) in Patiala, which has been awaiting replacement for an extended period. He stressed the importance of improving sports facilities and building infrastructure at the grassroots level.
Coaches also voiced their concerns, calling for greater investment in training and development of Indian coaches. They pointed out that while foreign coaches are often hired, insufficient attention is paid to nurturing domestic coaching talent.
The meeting also discussed the composition of the Sports Regulatory Board of India (SRBI), which will oversee the governance of sports federations. Suggestions were made to expand the selection committee for SRBI to include more experts and ensure a wider range of perspectives.
Participants also raised the issue of age restrictions for sports administrators, arguing that the 70-year age bar should be removed, as there is no such restriction for politicians. The involvement of states in sports governance and the need to address age fraud were also discussed.
The meeting was chaired by Union Sports Minister Mansukh Mandaviya and attended by approximately 40 athletes and coaches in person, with an additional 120 joining virtually. Notable attendees included Chopra, Nikhat Zareen, Bhavani Devi, Gagan Narang, Samaresh Jung, and Ashok Kumar.
