Deputy Chief Minister chairs ‘Good Governance in Sports’ session at National Sports Chintan Shivir in Srinagar; Chhattisgarh’s sports model draws appreciation from other states
TFP Bureau, Raipur, April 26, 2026: Emphasising the need for a strong and transparent sports ecosystem, Chhattisgarh Deputy Chief Minister Arun Sao said India can emerge as a global sporting powerhouse only through a combination of talent, transparency and equal opportunity for athletes.
Sao made these remarks while presiding over a session titled ‘Good Governance in Sports’ on the second day of the National Sports Chintan Shivir organised by the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports in Srinagar.
The Deputy Chief Minister, who also holds the Sports and Youth Welfare portfolio in Chhattisgarh, delivered a detailed presentation highlighting the state’s sports policies, governance practices and future strategies aimed at nurturing talent and strengthening infrastructure.
Chhattisgarh’s Sports Model Highlighted
During the session, Sao presented a video presentation outlining Chhattisgarh’s initiatives to promote sports at the grassroots level and provide systematic support to athletes.
He explained various governance practices adopted by the state government, including improved sports infrastructure, transparent athlete selection processes, training programmes and incentive schemes designed to encourage young talent.
Officials and representatives from several states participating in the Chintan Shivir appreciated the state’s future plans and described them as a promising model for sports development.
Sao also invited suggestions from sports ministers and officials of other states to further strengthen sports policies and implementation mechanisms in Chhattisgarh.
Dialogue with Sports Leaders and Athletes
Over the two-day deliberation camp, Sao held discussions with sports ministers from various states, sports administrators and internationally renowned athletes on key challenges facing India’s sports ecosystem.
He stressed that the country’s success in the Olympic Games and other global competitions depends on the creation of a comprehensive sports ecosystem that encourages athletes from the grassroots to the elite level.
“India will become a global sporting power only when we combine talent with transparency and ensure equal opportunities for athletes. Olympic success is possible only through strong infrastructure, professional management and sustained encouragement,” Sao said.
He expressed confidence that the Chintan Shivir would provide a clear direction for the holistic development of sports across the country and help states strengthen their policies and programmes.
Discussions on Sports Policy and Industry Development
Several sessions on the second day of the event focused on critical issues related to sports administration, policy reforms and youth development.
Participants discussed the need to promote the manufacturing of sports equipment within the country, enabling India to become self-reliant in the sports industry. Experts emphasised that the production of high-quality equipment domestically would benefit athletes and boost the sports economy.
The deliberations also covered effective implementation of government schemes and the promotion of sports-related startups, which are increasingly emerging as a new sector supporting training technologies, performance analytics and sports management.
Focus on Fair Selection and Age Fraud Prevention
A key session of the day focused on selection policies and age fraud, issues that have long affected the credibility of sports competitions.
Participants emphasised the importance of transparent selection systems, clear eligibility criteria and strict verification processes to ensure fairness in athlete selection.
Officials discussed the adoption of technological measures and improved documentation systems to detect and prevent age fraud, thereby safeguarding the integrity of sports competitions.
Emphasis on Youth Engagement Through MY Bharat
The final session of the day was dedicated to the initiatives and action plan associated with MY Bharat, which aims to empower youth and expand their participation in nation-building activities.
Officials highlighted the central government’s approach of giving equal importance to youth development alongside sports promotion. Discussions also focused on expanding awareness of youth-focused schemes so that their benefits reach a wider section of young people across the country.
Special Youth Affairs Chintan Shivir Planned
Concluding the event, Union Minister for Youth Affairs and Sports Mansukh Mandaviya announced that a separate Chintan Shivir dedicated exclusively to youth affairs would be organised soon.
The two-day National Sports Chintan Shivir witnessed participation from sports ministers, policymakers, administrators and several legendary athletes, including Olympic gold medallist Abhinav Bindra, badminton coach Pullela Gopichandand Olympic medallist Gagan Narang.
The deliberations are expected to play an important role in shaping future sports policies, strengthening coordination between the Centre and states and laying the foundation for India’s emergence as a major force in global sports.
