The Indian sports business has significantly benefited from industrialization. In response, the government has increasingly focused on developing the sports industry, recognizing its substantial growth potential. Narinder Dhruv Batra, former Member of the International Olympic Committee (IOC), Ex-President of the International Hockey Federation, and the Indian Olympic Association, shares his expertise in advancing the Indian sports ecosystem.
The sports industry encompasses various divisions, including apparel, sports equipment, and tourism. It is one of the world’s most lucrative sectors, generating substantial income and employment opportunities. As a multimillion-dollar industry driven by rising consumer demands, the sports business has evolved over time, contributing to national growth. According to Narinder Dhruv Batra, “The Indian sports scene is expanding beyond cricket to include a variety of sports, leading to increased participation, viewership, and growth in sports-related industries. India’s improving economic climate, rising disposable incomes, and changing attitudes towards fitness are driving the demand for sports-related goods and services.” He adds, “Following the vision of boosting the sports ecosystem, there’s a lot that could be done.”
Promoting Sports Among Youth
Encouraging young children to develop a habit of playing sports is essential. Sport, with its broad appeal, unmatched popularity, and moral foundation, is one of humanity’s greatest inventions. It breaks down barriers and enhances self-esteem both physically and mentally. Sports offer numerous benefits for children, including developing physical skills, getting exercise, meeting new people, having fun, learning teamwork, practicing fair play, and boosting self-esteem. The most significant advantage is the improvement of children’s physical and mental development. Raising awareness among children will drive them to choose sports as a career while instilling the values of sportsmanship.
Building and Renovating Sports Infrastructure
In recent years, it has been recognized that developing and renovating sports infrastructure, whether large or small facilities, can spur economic development. Therefore, creating such infrastructure is crucial to urban planning.
Narinder Dhruv Batra notes, “There are now 10 franchise-based sporting leagues operating in India, reflecting a significant increase in leagues. Government initiatives like Khelo India have motivated many potential athletes to take up sports. The government’s goal of winning 50 Olympic gold medals in the near future will be achieved by building more athletic facilities with top-notch infrastructure, necessary to maintain the current growth momentum in sports. To aid in updating and refurbishing, it is necessary to identify and compile information on already-existing sporting facilities as a first step. Then, these assets can be advertised to ensure that future athletes make better use of the facilities and sporting and training infrastructure.”
Government Schemes to Promote Sports Culture
The introduction of various government schemes to promote a sports culture can support athletes in India. Narinder Dhruv Batra explains, “The Sports Authority of India, the premier sports body in the country, is now in the process of formulating and implementing a series of reforms in the Sports Sector to develop sports and physical education holistically.” Sports promotional schemes of SAI, including the National Sports Talent Contest Scheme, Army Boys Sports Company Scheme, SAI Training Centres Scheme, Extension Centre of STC/SAG, and Come and Play Scheme, are conscious efforts by the government of India to encourage sportspersons in different areas.
Conclusion
Sports are a crucial pillar of India’s holistic growth. To firmly place the nation on the path to sports supremacy, stakeholders in the ecosystem must consider the current state of sports infrastructure in India and address the various obstacles hindering further development. With concerted efforts and strategic planning, India can achieve significant progress in the global sports arena.