MYAS Introduces Online Nomination Process for National Sports Awards

Kathmandu, November 14 (Alayaran.com) - In a significant shift, the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports (MYAS) has announced an online application process for the national sports awards. The move is aimed at ensuring that all deserving athletes and coaches are considered without any bias or favoritism.

Formerly, athletics were presented on August 29 every year, coinciding with the birth date of hockey legend Dhyan Chand. However, due to various international events like Olympics and Asian Games, which sometimes extended beyond September 29, many athletes had to wait for their awards after these tournaments. This led to criticism that favorite names were being shortlisted over time.

The latest notification has changed this system, allowing athletes straight entry into the online nomination portal. National Sports Federations (NSFs) are still required to submit lists of athletes who may be eligible for an award, and the MYAS and Sports Authority of India (SAI) would then conduct thorough verification before shortlisting candidates.

For instance, the inclusion of a retired judge as chairman of the awards committee is a welcome development. This ensures that legal disputes over the selection process are minimized, unlike in 2016 when the Athletics Federation of India went to court to dispute two Arjuna Awards awarded by the legendary athlete KT Usha.

Furthermore, with a transparent evaluation and nomination process, any deserving athlete will be evaluated based on their performance at international events. The inclusion of names for awards received won or not is underlined as an essential attribute as well in this year's national award notification.

The online application system seems to be the best way forward, ensuring equal opportunities are made available to all athletes and coaches seeking recognition.