Want to promote sports in remote parts of the country, NSP 2025 will help spread it: PM Modi

In his Independence speech, Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced the government's commitment to promote sports in remote corners of India and said recently-approved National Sports Policy 2025 will help in realising the goal.

"We want to promote sports in far flung areas. The National Sports Policy will help in this matter," Modi said on Friday from the Red Fort in Delhi.

"Sports is an essential aspect of development and I am happy, that from the time when parents used to scoff at children spending time in sports, we have reached a point where it has changed. Now, parents are happy if children take interest in sports," Modi said with guests like double Olympic-medallist shooter Manu Bhaker applauding.


"I consider it a good omen. It fills me with pride to see sports finding a space in Indian families. It is good for India's future," he added.

The NSP calls for greater accountability of administrators and establishment of processes to "ensure ethical practices, fair play and healthy competition in the sports sector". It was introduced on July 1 after cabinet approval.

It pushes to create national agencies and inter-ministerial committees to facilitate swift action and effective resolution of issues. The policy also proposes a revamped funding mechanism, including initiatives such as "Adopt an Athlete", "Adopt a District", "Adopt a Venue", "One Corporate-One Sport", and "One PSU-One State" wherever feasible.

"To promote sports, we have come up with the National Sports Policy after several decades. It would ensure development of sports, from school to the Olympics. We will develop an ecosystem whether it is coaching, fitness or infrastructure. We will create an ecosystem that penetrates the farthest corner of the country," the prime minister declared.

Last month, the Union Cabinet, chaired by the prime minister approved the National Sports Policy (NSP) 2025, an initiative aimed at reshaping the country's sports culture and empower citizens through sports.

The new policy will replace the existing sports policy that was formulated in 2001. It is a visionary and strategic roadmap to establish India as a global sporting powerhouse and a strong contender for excellence at international sporting events, including the 2036 Olympic Games.

The NSP 2025 aims to build a strong and inclusive sports ecosystem in the country.