How Does the National Sports Policy Reflect India’s Ambition to Become a Global Sporting Powerhouse?

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How Does the National Sports Policy Reflect India’s Ambition to Become a Global Sporting Powerhouse?

Synopsis

Mahesh Bhupathi has hailed the National Sports Policy 2025 as a transformative step for India's sporting future. This policy not only recognizes established sports but also embraces emerging ones like Padel, setting the stage for a vibrant sporting culture. Discover the implications of this policy in shaping India's Olympic dreams and sports landscape.

Key Takeaways

  • New National Sports Policy 2025 approved to reshape India's sports.
  • Focus on emerging sports like Padel.
  • Encourages competitive leagues and infrastructure development.
  • Aims to strengthen India's presence in international sporting events.
  • Support from former Grand Slam champion Mahesh Bhupathi.

New Delhi, July 2 (NationPress) India's former Grand Slam champion Mahesh Bhupathi praised the recently endorsed National Sports Policy 2025, emphasizing how this policy paves the way for emerging sports such as Padel, encourages league formats, and bolsters India's Olympic strategy.

The Union Cabinet, under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, approved the National Sports Policy (NSP) 2025 on Tuesday, an initiative designed to transform the sporting environment in the country and empower citizens through sports.

"The National Sports Policy 2025 embodies India's increasing ambition to be recognized as a global sporting leader. What’s remarkable is that this policy not only prioritizes established sports but also carves out opportunities for emerging ones like padel.

"The focus on creating competitive leagues, enhancing infrastructure in both rural and urban regions, and fostering collaboration with the private sector is precisely what newer sports like padel require to thrive," Bhupathi, who co-founded the World Padel League, stated.

This new policy replaces the previous National Sports Policy, 2001, setting forth a visionary and strategic plan to position India as a global sporting authority and a formidable competitor at international sporting events, including the 2036 Olympic Games.

"This marks a new chapter in India's sports framework - one that will drive participation, investment, and global excellence. We are thrilled to contribute to this journey by introducing the World Padel League to India and making padel a widely recognized sport, as India expands its sporting landscape. Here’s to achieving many more sporting milestones ahead!" he concluded.

Bhupathi, a former doubles world No. 1 tennis player, was the first Indian to clinch a Grand Slam title, winning the mixed doubles French Open alongside Japan’s Rika Hiraki. He later secured four men’s doubles and seven additional mixed doubles Grand Slam titles.

Point of View

I believe the National Sports Policy 2025 is a significant step towards a more inclusive and competitive sporting environment in India. By supporting not only traditional sports but also emerging ones, the policy lays the groundwork for a robust sports culture that fosters participation, investment, and international recognition.
NationPress
20/08/2025

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the National Sports Policy 2025?
The National Sports Policy 2025 is an initiative approved by the Union Cabinet aimed at transforming India's sports landscape by empowering citizens and promoting emerging sports.
How does the policy support emerging sports like Padel?
The policy focuses on creating competitive leagues and developing infrastructure, which are essential for the growth of emerging sports such as Padel.
What are the goals of the National Sports Policy 2025?
The goals include establishing India as a global sporting powerhouse, increasing participation in sports, and preparing for international competitions like the 2036 Olympic Games.
Who endorsed the National Sports Policy 2025?
The National Sports Policy 2025 was endorsed by the Union Cabinet, chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
What is Mahesh Bhupathi's role in promoting Padel in India?
Mahesh Bhupathi, a former Grand Slam champion, is a co-founder of the World Padel League and is actively promoting Padel as a mainstream sport in India.