Sports Ministry Plans to Launch Dozen National Sports Leagues

New Delhi, Dec 10 (PTI) - In a bid to tap into the country's enormous sports talent pool, the Sports Ministry is set to introduce dozen-odd national sports leagues (NSLs), with the objective of helping India achieve its ambition of hosting the Olympics in 2036.

According to sources familiar with the developments, the planning process and the selection of disciplines are already at an advanced stage. Details regarding the leagues will likely be announced in due course.

Under the Sports Authority of India's ambitious Khelo India programme, the NSLs will bring together major stakeholders - including the National Sports Federations (NSFs) and league organizers like the Hockey India League (HIL), Pro Kabaddi League (PKL), etc - to promote competitive sports. The focus will be on nurturing young talent in struggling sports disciplines.

"It's a strategic move to identify talent in specific disciplines," said an official source, who wished not to be named. "The league will not duplicate existing competitions; rather it will consolidate the efforts of the leagues and NSFs."

Given that only financially strapped or struggling leagues will be supported by the government in this venture, major sports organizations like HIL and PKL won't face any challenges under this new initiative.

India, aspiring to host the 2028 Olympics, has recently sent a 'Letter of Intent' to the International Olympic Committee (IOC). Many believe Ahmedabad is likely to be chosen as the host city following this move, but sources caution against making assumptions at present, given that no concrete discussions have been held regarding the host city.

Recently, World Athletics president Sebastian Coe had fruitful meetings with Sports Minister Mansukh Mandaviya during his visit. This discussion was marked by the minister's information on India sending a Letter of Intent to IOC and its ongoing efforts to boost India's global sporting profile. Coe acknowledged India's increasing reputation as a major sports force, commending their performance at this year's 2024 Paralympics.

India won a record-breaking 29 medals in Paris Paralympics, featuring seven gold, with the nation finishing 18th on the overall medal count.