The 2030 Commonwealth Games baton has officially been handed over to India, marking the beginning of preparations for the next edition of the Games in Ahmedabad, Gujarat.

India is planning a larger, multi-sport event featuring 15 to 17 disciplines, significantly expanding on Glasgow's scaled-down edition. Two sports being strongly considered for inclusion are Yoga and Kabaddi, both deeply rooted in Indian heritage. Officials believe the 2030 Commonwealth Games could become a major milestone in India's sporting ambitions while also strengthening Ahmedabad's bid to host the 2036 Olympic Games. The inclusion of Yoga and Kabaddi could provide both disciplines with unprecedented global exposure.

India Eyes Yoga & Kabaddi for 2030 Commonwealth Games | Ahmedabad Set to Host Mega Event

India's 'golden boy' Neeraj Chopra has qualified for the final of the javelin throw at the Commonwealth Games 2026 in Glasgow. All three Indian made it to the final, which will take place on Friday.

Three Indians qualify for CWG Javelin Final | Wion Sports 

Indian cricket veteran Ajinkya Rahane has announced his retirement from all forms of cricket with immediate effect, bringing an end to a remarkable career spanning more than a decade. Rahane will forever be remembered for leading India to one of its greatest-ever Test triumphs during the historic 2020–21 Border-Gavaskar Trophy in Australia. Under his captaincy, India scripted the unforgettable Gabba victory after overcoming injuries and adversity to seal a memorable series win.

Ajinkya Rahane Announces Retirement From Cricket | Wion Sports 

The ongoing conflict in West Asia has begun to ripple into Indian sports infrastructure, with a shortage of LPG forcing the closure of the Sports Authority of India’s (SAI) head office canteen in Delhi for the past fortnight. The canteen, which caters exclusively to SAI staff, has been unable to operate fully due to the lack of cooking gas. As a result, it is currently limited to serving only tea and coffee using an induction cooktop.<h2>SAI canteen goes shut</h2>"The SAI head office canteen served 150 staff with breakfast and evening snacks daily," a source told WION. "The staff at the head office have to go out for food for the last 15 days after the canteen was closed due to LPG shortage."&nbsp;Despite the disruption, athletes training at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium have not been affected. The facility that serves them continues to function without interruption."The canteen, which caters only to the athletes in the camp at the JLN stadium, remains fully functional," the source added.&nbsp;ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-rohit-sharma-to-sanju-samson-5-highest-individual-score-in-a-lost-chase-in-ipl-yusuf-pathan-kl-rahul-shaun-marsh-ipl-2026-1774084136030">From Rohit Sharma to Sanju Samson, 5 highest individual scores in a lost chase in IPL</a>&nbsp;The disruption comes in the wake of escalating tensions in the Middle East, particularly after Iran shut down the Strait of Hormuz following coordinated military action by the United States and Israel. This has impacted India’s LPG supply chain.&nbsp;While the Union Government continues to assert that there is no LPG shortage, multiple reports from the ground suggest otherwise, including migrant workers returning to their villages amid fuel constraints.&nbsp;ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-cameron-green-to-liam-livingstone-5-most-expensive-players-in-ipl-2026-auctions-matheesha-pathirana-kartik-sharma-prashant-veer-1774031148132">From Cameron Green to Liam Livingstone, 5 most expensive players in IPL 2026 auctions</a><h2>What is the current situation?</h2>Arvinder Singh Sahney, Chairman, Indian Oil Corporation Limited on Friday said that oil marketing companies (OMCs) are supplying around 80,000 metric tonnes of LPG daily across the country, while ensuring delivery of nearly 50 lakh cylinders to domestic consumers every day.&nbsp;In an interaction with ANI, the Indian Oil Corporation Limited Chairman said that domestic LPG consumers are being fully prioritised amid the ongoing geopolitical situation, with no major disruptions reported.

West Asia tensions trigger LPG shortage, forcing SAI Delhi canteen shut for 15 days; staff struggle, while athletes remain unaffected.

The ongoing conflict in West Asia has begun to ripple into Indian sports infrastructure, with a shortage of LPG forcing the closure of the Sports Authority of India’s (SAI) head office canteen in Delhi for the past fortnight. The canteen, which caters exclusively to SAI staff, has been unable to operate fully due to the lack of cooking gas. As a result, it is currently limited to serving only tea and coffee using an induction cooktop. SAI canteen goes shut "The SAI head office canteen served 150 staff with breakfast and evening snacks daily," a source told WION. "The staff at the head office have to go out for food for the last 15 days after the canteen was closed due to LPG shortage." Despite the disruption, athletes training at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium have not been affected. The facility that serves them continues to function without interruption. "The canteen, which caters only to the athletes in the camp at the JLN stadium, remains fully functional," the source added. ALSO READ | From Rohit Sharma to Sanju Samson, 5 highest individual scores in a lost chase in IPL The disruption comes in the wake of escalating tensions in the Middle East, particularly after Iran shut down the Strait of Hormuz following coordinated military action by the United States and Israel. This has impacted India’s LPG supply chain. While the Union Government continues to assert that there is no LPG shortage, multiple reports from the ground suggest otherwise, including migrant workers returning to their villages amid fuel constraints. ALSO READ | From Cameron Green to Liam Livingstone, 5 most expensive players in IPL 2026 auctions What is the current situation? Arvinder Singh Sahney, Chairman, Indian Oil Corporation Limited on Friday said that oil marketing companies (OMCs) are supplying around 80,000 metric tonnes of LPG daily across the country, while ensuring delivery of nearly 50 lakh cylinders to domestic consumers every day. In an interaction with ANI, the Indian Oil Corporation Limited Chairman said that domestic LPG consumers are being fully prioritised amid the ongoing geopolitical situation, with no major disruptions reported.

West Asia tensions trigger LPG shortage, forcing SAI Delhi canteen shut for 15 days; staff struggle, while athletes remain unaffected.

LPG crisis hits Indian sports: SAI Delhi canteen has been shut for 15 days

On July 1, 2025, India's 16-year-old badminton sensation Tanvi Sharma made the country proud, as she became the new world number 1 in junior women's singles player category. The official X account of the Badminton Association of India (BAI) in a post on X said, "At a mere 16 years old, Teen Titan Tanvi Sharma is the new World No. 1 Junior Women's Single Player. What a great couple of weeks it has been for Tanvi! #Badminton #TanviSharma #TeenTitan #IndiaRising #IndianSports." &nbsp;In the women's singles at the recently-concluded US Open, Tanvi stunned everyone with a solid display of badminton throughout the tournament. She beat players ranked world no. 23, 40, 50, and 58 to make it to the final. In the final, she fell to top seed USA's Beiwen Zhang in a thrilling encounter (21-11, 16-21, 21-10). Tanvi scripted history by becoming the youngest Indian to be in a Badminton World Federation (BWF) World Tour final. &nbsp;In a quiet, determined voice, 16-year-old Tanvi Sharma recalled her mindset ahead of the Super 300 tournament that changed her career forever. “I went there thinking I just want to give my best,” she said modestly in an exclusive interview with WION. A few rounds later, the teenager from Hoshiarpur, Punjab had not just made the finals—she had become the world no. 1 in junior women’s singles.&nbsp;Tanvi’s journey to the top has been steady and impressive. Hailing from a sports-loving family, she was introduced to badminton at the age of five and a half. Her mother, Meena Sharma, a former volleyball player turned badminton coach, and her elder sister, also a player, became her early inspirations. “I used to go with them and watch them play. That’s how it all started,” she said.&nbsp;For Tanvi, badminton runs in the blood—but the success comes from something more. Discipline. Determination. And the quiet self-belief of someone who doesn’t carry pressure, but motivation. “I don’t feel pressure,” she said when asked about the expectations that come with the no. 1 ranking. “I feel confident. I want to do even better and perform at the next level. My goal is to bring glory to India.”&nbsp;As the second half of the season unfolds, she already has her sights set on big targets: the Asian Junior Championships, the World Junior Championships, and eventually performing on the senior BWF Super Series circuit. She knows the leap won’t be easy, but she believes the Indian badminton ecosystem is strong and full of potential. “There are many talented players in India. All they need is time and the right guidance,” she shares.&nbsp;Tanvi also credits her idols—Saina Nehwal and PV Sindhu—for shaping her game. “I’ve been watching them since I was little,” she says. “I really like how Sindhu plays on the court, especially her aggression. I try to bring that into my own game.”&nbsp;To young kids watching her journey and dreaming of a future in badminton, Tanvi’s message is simple and grounded. “Hard work is everything. Be disciplined in training, and give your best—every single day.”&nbsp;At just 16, Tanvi Sharma is already leading the next generation of Indian badminton stars. But more than her ranking, it’s her calm focus and deep love for the game that stands out. The world is now watching—and she’s just getting started.

She went to compete but returned as world no. 1: Meet 16-year-old Tanvi Sharma

On July 1, 2025, India's 16-year-old badminton sensation Tanvi Sharma made the country proud, as she became the new world number 1 in junior women's singles player category. The official X account of the Badminton Association of India (BAI) in a post on X said, "At a mere 16 years old, Teen Titan Tanvi Sharma is the new World No. 1 Junior Women's Single Player. What a great couple of weeks it has been for Tanvi! #Badminton #TanviSharma #TeenTitan #IndiaRising #IndianSports." In the women's singles at the recently-concluded US Open, Tanvi stunned everyone with a solid display of badminton throughout the tournament. She beat players ranked world no. 23, 40, 50, and 58 to make it to the final. In the final, she fell to top seed USA's Beiwen Zhang in a thrilling encounter (21-11, 16-21, 21-10). Tanvi scripted history by becoming the youngest Indian to be in a Badminton World Federation (BWF) World Tour final. In a quiet, determined voice, 16-year-old Tanvi Sharma recalled her mindset ahead of the Super 300 tournament that changed her career forever. “I went there thinking I just want to give my best,” she said modestly in an exclusive interview with WION. A few rounds later, the teenager from Hoshiarpur, Punjab had not just made the finals—she had become the world no. 1 in junior women’s singles. Tanvi’s journey to the top has been steady and impressive. Hailing from a sports-loving family, she was introduced to badminton at the age of five and a half. Her mother, Meena Sharma, a former volleyball player turned badminton coach, and her elder sister, also a player, became her early inspirations. “I used to go with them and watch them play. That’s how it all started,” she said. For Tanvi, badminton runs in the blood—but the success comes from something more. Discipline. Determination. And the quiet self-belief of someone who doesn’t carry pressure, but motivation. “I don’t feel pressure,” she said when asked about the expectations that come with the no. 1 ranking. “I feel confident. I want to do even better and perform at the next level. My goal is to bring glory to India.” As the second half of the season unfolds, she already has her sights set on big targets: the Asian Junior Championships, the World Junior Championships, and eventually performing on the senior BWF Super Series circuit. She knows the leap won’t be easy, but she believes the Indian badminton ecosystem is strong and full of potential. “There are many talented players in India. All they need is time and the right guidance,” she shares. Tanvi also credits her idols—Saina Nehwal and PV Sindhu—for shaping her game. “I’ve been watching them since I was little,” she says. “I really like how Sindhu plays on the court, especially her aggression. I try to bring that into my own game.” To young kids watching her journey and dreaming of a future in badminton, Tanvi’s message is simple and grounded. “Hard work is everything. Be disciplined in training, and give your best—every single day.” At just 16, Tanvi Sharma is already leading the next generation of Indian badminton stars. But more than her ranking, it’s her calm focus and deep love for the game that stands out. The world is now watching—and she’s just getting started.

Tanvi scripted history by becoming the youngest Indian to be in a Badminton World Federation (BWF) World Tour final

Exclusive | She went to compete but returned as world no. 1: Meet 16-year-old shuttler Tanvi Sharma

India Independence - From Olympics to Cricket: When 'free India' shined in the world of Sports

Sports Minister Kiren Rijiju on Friday said he aspires to see India finish among top 10 nations in the medals tally in 2028 Los Angeles Summer Olympics.

"In the days to come, I want to ensure that not only our (India's) participation, but our success rate also must be very high (in the Olympic Games)," Rijiju said in an Insta live show 'In The Sportlight' hosted by budding table tennis player Mudit Dani.

"So the target is to make India as one of the top 10 Olympic nations by 2028. This is the target I have set and with the Indian Olympic Association and all National Sports Federations, we have worked out certain plans and strategies."

The 2020 Tokyo Olympics were postponed to 2021 due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

The 2024 Olympics will be hosted by Paris while the 2028 edition of the quadrennial event will be held in Los Angeles. 
Rijiju exuded confidence that India would put up a better show in the 2024 Games but the main focus remains on the 2028 edition.

"I have no doubt in my mind that by 2028, we will be one of the top ten nations in Olympic and by 2024, we will do better, but top 10 is something we have to achieve by 2028 Olympics," he reiterated.

The minister said keeping this goal in mind, the government has already introduced several programmes like the Khelo India Games and Fit India movement. "India needs to succeed in Olympics and that is why we have created this sporting culture in India by launching Khelo India, Fit India movement, besides different kind of support system and grassroot level motivation.

"India's position in the Olympics has to be worth mentioning," Rijiju said

Sports Minister Kiren Rijiju on Friday said he aspires to see India finish among top 10 nations in the medals tally in 2028 Los Angeles Summer Olympics. "In the days to come, I want to ensure that not only our (India's) participation, but our success rate also must be very high (in the Olympic Games)," Rijiju said in an Insta live show 'In The Sportlight' hosted by budding table tennis player Mudit Dani.

Sports Minister Kiren Rijiju on Friday said he aspires to see India finish among top 10 nations in the medals tally in 2028 Los Angeles Summer Olympics. "In the days to come, I want to ensure that not only our (India's) participation, but our success rate also must be very high (in the Olympic Games)," Rijiju said in an Insta live show 'In The Sportlight' hosted by budding table tennis player Mudit Dani. "So the target is to make India as one of the top 10 Olympic nations by 2028. This is the target I have set and with the Indian Olympic Association and all National Sports Federations, we have worked out certain plans and strategies." The 2020 Tokyo Olympics were postponed to 2021 due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The 2024 Olympics will be hosted by Paris while the 2028 edition of the quadrennial event will be held in Los Angeles. Rijiju exuded confidence that India would put up a better show in the 2024 Games but the main focus remains on the 2028 edition. "I have no doubt in my mind that by 2028, we will be one of the top ten nations in Olympic and by 2024, we will do better, but top 10 is something we have to achieve by 2028 Olympics," he reiterated. The minister said keeping this goal in mind, the government has already introduced several programmes like the Khelo India Games and Fit India movement. "India needs to succeed in Olympics and that is why we have created this sporting culture in India by launching Khelo India, Fit India movement, besides different kind of support system and grassroot level motivation. "India's position in the Olympics has to be worth mentioning," Rijiju said

Kiren Rijiju says target is to finish in top 10 in 2028 Olympics

#9pm9minutes: Indian sports fraternity show solidarity by lighting up diyas!

The initial phase of the&nbsp;Indian Super League (ISL) did not start off as expected for the defending champions <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/sunil-chhetri-extends-bengaluru-fc-contract-154243">Bengaluru FC</a>, with the team winning only one match out of the first three and only one goal scored.

However, under the guidance of former Barcelona youngster and team head coach Carles Cuadrat, Bengaluru have reclaimed their position as one of the top favourites to win this year's edition of the super league as well.

“We had a slow start. There were a few issues we had to iron out, and we have rectified them now. I think you are going to see a strong finish from our side at the end of the season,” he told sources.

Over the games this season, Indian superstar and team captain <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/hungry-sunil-chhetri-wants-india-in-asias-top-10-240766">Sunil Chhetri</a> and Australian midfielder Erik Paartalu have proclaimed for themselves a position of great eminence on the field, having become the principal playmakers for the team.

Paartalu opened the scoring in the game with a goal from a corner within six&nbsp;minutes since the start of the game.

Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/manchester-city-owners-to-buy-65-stake-in-indias-mumbai-city-fc-265162">Manchester City owners to buy 65% stake in India's Mumbai City FC</a>

“In my position, you never really get noticed unless you score a goal and make an assist. I think I have four assists and two goals and it’s probably better than any tally I’ve had so far. I want to continue to build on that. This year is a big year for me and the club. We want to push for the Champions League spot,” Paartalu claimed.

Erik was referring to Bengaluru FC attempting to grab a spot in the Asian Football Confederations' <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/revamped-fifa-club-world-cup-important-for-asia-gianni-infantino-208343">(AFC) Champions League</a>, in which domestic rivals Chennaiyin FC hold a spot.

Chhetri doubled the score against the 'Men of Steel' by shooting&nbsp;a goal into the net in the 63rd minute.

The team is clearly making progress, taking into consideration their improving match performances and style of playing.

The initial phase of the Indian Super League (ISL) did not start off as expected for the defending champions Bengaluru FC, with the team winning only one match out of the first three and only one goal scored.

The initial phase of the Indian Super League (ISL) did not start off as expected for the defending champions Bengaluru FC, with the team winning only one match out of the first three and only one goal scored. However, under the guidance of former Barcelona youngster and team head coach Carles Cuadrat, Bengaluru have reclaimed their position as one of the top favourites to win this year's edition of the super league as well. “We had a slow start. There were a few issues we had to iron out, and we have rectified them now. I think you are going to see a strong finish from our side at the end of the season,” he told sources. Over the games this season, Indian superstar and team captain Sunil Chhetri and Australian midfielder Erik Paartalu have proclaimed for themselves a position of great eminence on the field, having become the principal playmakers for the team. Paartalu opened the scoring in the game with a goal from a corner within six minutes since the start of the game. Also Read: Manchester City owners to buy 65% stake in India's Mumbai City FC “In my position, you never really get noticed unless you score a goal and make an assist. I think I have four assists and two goals and it’s probably better than any tally I’ve had so far. I want to continue to build on that. This year is a big year for me and the club. We want to push for the Champions League spot,” Paartalu claimed. Erik was referring to Bengaluru FC attempting to grab a spot in the Asian Football Confederations' (AFC) Champions League, in which domestic rivals Chennaiyin FC hold a spot. Chhetri doubled the score against the 'Men of Steel' by shooting a goal into the net in the 63rd minute. The team is clearly making progress, taking into consideration their improving match performances and style of playing.

ISL: Holders Bengaluru FC thrash Jamshedpur 2-0

The Indian Olympic Association has offered the Commonwealth Games Federation that India could host the sporting events&nbsp;that have been removed from the roster for the 2022 Birmingham games. The games are <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/in-boycott-reversal-india-to-participate-in-the-2022-commonwealth-games-in-birmingham-cgf-271095">not going to host</a> any shooting events.

The Indian Olympic Association (IOA) had threatened to boycott the Birmingham Games over shooting's exclusion before their climbdown last week.

The Indian shooting federation has offered to host a&nbsp;Commonwealth&nbsp;shooting championship in 2022 and the IOA also wants to organise a similar competition for archery, which will not feature in Birmingham either.

"We are in the process of sending our proposal for the shooting and archery competitions to the&nbsp;Commonwealth&nbsp;Games Federation (CGF)," said IOA secretary general Rajeev Mehta.

"As of now, shooting federation will finance the shooting competition and we're seeking government fund for archery."

Indian officials also want the medals won in both the tournaments to count in the final table in Birmingham.

IOA was most upset at the exclusion of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-firms-up-commonwealth-games-boycott-threats-over-shooting-exclusion-239030">shooting</a> which supplied 16 of India's 66 medals, including seven golds, at the 2018 Gold Coast Games.

In its absence, India, who finished third in the 2018 medals table, could slip to anywhere between fifth and eighth in Birmingham, according to IOA estimates.

National Rifle Association of India (NRAI), which led the outrage against shooting's exclusion, came up with the idea of a separate&nbsp;Commonwealth&nbsp;championship.

"It's a simple proposal to have an adjunct competition, either in New Delhi or Chandigarh, three months before the main Games in Birmingham," NRAI president <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/young-guns-of-indian-shooting-ready-for-gold-rush-at-tokyo-olympics-249259">Raninder Singh</a> told sources.

The proposal follows CGF president Louise Martin's meeting with her international shooting federation (ISSF) counterpart Vladimir Lisin in Munich last month.

"Although a&nbsp;Commonwealth&nbsp;Shooting Championships is amongst one of several ideas being discussed with the ISSF, nothing has been formally proposed, let alone agreed upon..." CGF chief executive David Grevemberg said in a statement last month.

"...speculation around what this event could look like, and what medals won at such an event could mean in the context of the&nbsp;Commonwealth&nbsp;Games, is extremely premature."

Singh, who attended the Munich meeting as ISS vice-president, said India's offer could lead to infrastructure-sharing among CGF members nations.

"This is a very exciting and unique offer, which can be a game-changer. It may not have happened in&nbsp;Commonwealth&nbsp;Games, but co-hosting is not unprecedented in sports.

"Why <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/commonwealths-a-waste-of-time-and-money-india-olympic-chief-251964">waste money</a> creating new infrastructure which may rot and not use the existing ones even if in another country? It gives flexibility.

"There will always be some sports which will be left out. It's shooting now, it maybe <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/indias-teen-shuttler-lakshya-sen-wins-scottish-open-264356">badminton</a>'s turn next time.

"Adjunct competitions can take the Games to a much bigger and larger audience and help retain the popular but optional disciplines," Singh added.

The Indian Olympic Association has offered the Commonwealth Games Federation that India could host the sporting events that have been removed from the roster for the 2022 Birmingham games.

The Indian Olympic Association has offered the Commonwealth Games Federation that India could host the sporting events that have been removed from the roster for the 2022 Birmingham games. The games are not going to host any shooting events. The Indian Olympic Association (IOA) had threatened to boycott the Birmingham Games over shooting's exclusion before their climbdown last week. The Indian shooting federation has offered to host a Commonwealth shooting championship in 2022 and the IOA also wants to organise a similar competition for archery, which will not feature in Birmingham either. "We are in the process of sending our proposal for the shooting and archery competitions to the Commonwealth Games Federation (CGF)," said IOA secretary general Rajeev Mehta. "As of now, shooting federation will finance the shooting competition and we're seeking government fund for archery." Indian officials also want the medals won in both the tournaments to count in the final table in Birmingham. IOA was most upset at the exclusion of shooting which supplied 16 of India's 66 medals, including seven golds, at the 2018 Gold Coast Games. In its absence, India, who finished third in the 2018 medals table, could slip to anywhere between fifth and eighth in Birmingham, according to IOA estimates. National Rifle Association of India (NRAI), which led the outrage against shooting's exclusion, came up with the idea of a separate Commonwealth championship. "It's a simple proposal to have an adjunct competition, either in New Delhi or Chandigarh, three months before the main Games in Birmingham," NRAI president Raninder Singh told sources. The proposal follows CGF president Louise Martin's meeting with her international shooting federation (ISSF) counterpart Vladimir Lisin in Munich last month. "Although a Commonwealth Shooting Championships is amongst one of several ideas being discussed with the ISSF, nothing has been formally proposed, let alone agreed upon..." CGF chief executive David Grevemberg said in a statement last month. "...speculation around what this event could look like, and what medals won at such an event could mean in the context of the Commonwealth Games, is extremely premature." Singh, who attended the Munich meeting as ISS vice-president, said India's offer could lead to infrastructure-sharing among CGF members nations. "This is a very exciting and unique offer, which can be a game-changer. It may not have happened in Commonwealth Games, but co-hosting is not unprecedented in sports. "Why waste money creating new infrastructure which may rot and not use the existing ones even if in another country? It gives flexibility. "There will always be some sports which will be left out. It's shooting now, it maybe badminton's turn next time. "Adjunct competitions can take the Games to a much bigger and larger audience and help retain the popular but optional disciplines," Singh added.

India could host shooting events for CWG 2022: NRAI President Raninder Singh

Sports federations have a vital role to play in an evolving Indian environment where ideologies such as sport for the masses and “Khelo India” initiatives are being vigorously promoted across all socio-economic classes. There has indeed been a long and none-too-glorious tradition of sports federations in the country singularly failing to instal a sports ethos and culture in the minds of the people.

There are isolated instances where individual guts and dogged determination, rather than institutionalised and sustained methods, have resulted in unprecedented glory for India both in the team and solitary sport. A Prakash Padukone did become the badminton world champion and world number one nearly four decades ago, more through sheer dint of personal effort and attitude than the efforts of any federation or sports body. The lamentable part is that recent achievers and path-breakers like the exceptional Dipa Karmakar in gymnastics, or a Sania Nehwal in badminton, have hardly meant a sporting wave across the masses. The reasons are many. And the best news is that it seems fixable.

The key to fixing the many glitches and generating a sporting wave, if not a tsunami, across the country, is in getting the right individuals to take over the reins of our sports federations. The honchos sitting at the heads of the federations and their band of buddies are instrumental in making sports popular among the masses and achieving international sporting acclaim. It is an imperative – the control and functioning of sports federations must be taken out of the hands of politicians and business people with vested interests and put in the hands of professional sports administrators. Once a sport is played and watched by millions of Indians across the nation, medals and money will come in. And sometimes it is the odd championship or medal which drives popularity and power. Cricket stands testimony to this.

India has unique sporting challenges because of the changes not only in modern sports but in our own economic and social resurgence. Many see sports as a means of livelihood, indeed a way out of poverty. Many a parent in India continues to see sports as a hobby, hardly a profession. What might these challenges be then?

No sport is a law unto itself. The requirement is to cooperate, collaborate, interact and integrate with new partners in the private and public domains. The imperativeness of attracting new groups and classes of the public to sports is staring us in the face. A service-oriented approach towards diverse constituents such as the government, public, national and international associations, and sponsors is a basic necessity. Funding becomes fundamental. And several new skills and orientations need to be acquired.

The path to redemption and sporting success is through introducing contemporary management structures once our old archaic ways have been dumped. Modern methods, which incorporate programmes tailored to a complex and dynamic Indian environment, will do the sporting trick. There are many international success, like the German football association, from which we can learn and tailor to unique Indian circumstances.

Exit the archaic federation volunteer-honcho. Enter the professional paid-manager. Individual skills such as marketing, event organising, fundraising, collaborating, communicating, and promoting are what the modern paid-manger in a sport typically possesses. These essential ingredients are buttressed by strategic capabilities and inter-personal skills.

Transparency and reporting are crucial, and modern sport management accounting and reporting systems are an absolute must. Planning, budgeting and time-tested but modern methods are what the professional manager brings. Some of our sports federations are bereft of such thorough systems and procedures either by design or because of their lack of knowledge and skills. This dynamic change requires to take place under the supervisory gaze of a well-thought-out governance structure.

Sports management is distinct from coaching and teaching. The perpetually acrimonious matter of team selections is a bird of an entirely different feather. But unless we get the fundamentals of sports management in place, remove the old and bring in the new professional paid-manager, the bygones of Indian sport will continue to haunt us.

The shackles of the age-old control and leadership structures must be broken. Only professional sports managers who are properly paid and rewarded on performance can lead this seismic change. Until professionalism is ingrained into our sports systems and administrations, neither will India become a sport-minded country nor will the Olympic medals come. 
 
(This article was originally published on DNA. Read the <a href="https://www.dnaindia.com/analysis/column-indian-sports-need-professional-managers-not-politicians-2670852">original article</a>)

(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

Sports federations have a vital role to play in an evolving Indian environment where ideologies such as sport for the masses and “Khelo India” initiatives are being vigorously promoted across all socio-economic classes.

Sports federations have a vital role to play in an evolving Indian environment where ideologies such as sport for the masses and “Khelo India” initiatives are being vigorously promoted across all socio-economic classes. There has indeed been a long and none-too-glorious tradition of sports federations in the country singularly failing to instal a sports ethos and culture in the minds of the people. There are isolated instances where individual guts and dogged determination, rather than institutionalised and sustained methods, have resulted in unprecedented glory for India both in the team and solitary sport. A Prakash Padukone did become the badminton world champion and world number one nearly four decades ago, more through sheer dint of personal effort and attitude than the efforts of any federation or sports body. The lamentable part is that recent achievers and path-breakers like the exceptional Dipa Karmakar in gymnastics, or a Sania Nehwal in badminton, have hardly meant a sporting wave across the masses. The reasons are many. And the best news is that it seems fixable. The key to fixing the many glitches and generating a sporting wave, if not a tsunami, across the country, is in getting the right individuals to take over the reins of our sports federations. The honchos sitting at the heads of the federations and their band of buddies are instrumental in making sports popular among the masses and achieving international sporting acclaim. It is an imperative – the control and functioning of sports federations must be taken out of the hands of politicians and business people with vested interests and put in the hands of professional sports administrators. Once a sport is played and watched by millions of Indians across the nation, medals and money will come in. And sometimes it is the odd championship or medal which drives popularity and power. Cricket stands testimony to this. India has unique sporting challenges because of the changes not only in modern sports but in our own economic and social resurgence. Many see sports as a means of livelihood, indeed a way out of poverty. Many a parent in India continues to see sports as a hobby, hardly a profession. What might these challenges be then? No sport is a law unto itself. The requirement is to cooperate, collaborate, interact and integrate with new partners in the private and public domains. The imperativeness of attracting new groups and classes of the public to sports is staring us in the face. A service-oriented approach towards diverse constituents such as the government, public, national and international associations, and sponsors is a basic necessity. Funding becomes fundamental. And several new skills and orientations need to be acquired. The path to redemption and sporting success is through introducing contemporary management structures once our old archaic ways have been dumped. Modern methods, which incorporate programmes tailored to a complex and dynamic Indian environment, will do the sporting trick. There are many international success, like the German football association, from which we can learn and tailor to unique Indian circumstances. Exit the archaic federation volunteer-honcho. Enter the professional paid-manager. Individual skills such as marketing, event organising, fundraising, collaborating, communicating, and promoting are what the modern paid-manger in a sport typically possesses. These essential ingredients are buttressed by strategic capabilities and inter-personal skills. Transparency and reporting are crucial, and modern sport management accounting and reporting systems are an absolute must. Planning, budgeting and time-tested but modern methods are what the professional manager brings. Some of our sports federations are bereft of such thorough systems and procedures either by design or because of their lack of knowledge and skills. This dynamic change requires to take place under the supervisory gaze of a well-thought-out governance structure. Sports management is distinct from coaching and teaching. The perpetually acrimonious matter of team selections is a bird of an entirely different feather. But unless we get the fundamentals of sports management in place, remove the old and bring in the new professional paid-manager, the bygones of Indian sport will continue to haunt us. The shackles of the age-old control and leadership structures must be broken. Only professional sports managers who are properly paid and rewarded on performance can lead this seismic change. Until professionalism is ingrained into our sports systems and administrations, neither will India become a sport-minded country nor will the Olympic medals come. (This article was originally published on DNA. Read the original article) (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

Indian sports need professional managers, not politicians

The postage stamp has been issued in the honour of veteran female cricketer Jhulan Goswami on for her contributions in Indian sports.

The stamp was unveiled at the Calcutta Sports Journalists' club in the presence of former India captain Sourav Ganguly.

In May 2017, Jhulan Goswami surpassed Cathryn Fitzpatrick to become highest wicket-taker in women ODI history.

She is also the first woman to take 200 ODI wickets and recently she has been commemorated for her feat in cricket.

The stamp features her photo alongside a photo of the Victoria Memorial in Kolkata.

See the stamp:

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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
How good is this!!! To commemorate the fact that Jhulan Goswami became the 1st player to reach 200 ODI wickets. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/womenscricket?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#womenscricket</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/BCCIWomen?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@BCCIWomen</a> <a href="https://t.co/Pjo5y4VPP8">pic.twitter.com/Pjo5y4VPP8</a>
— Lisa Sthalekar (@sthalekar93) <a href="https://twitter.com/sthalekar93/status/987638643173949440?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 21, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Jhulan made her career debut in the year 2002 and has taken total 243 wickets including Test and ODI format.

Jhulan Goswami is the first woman to take 200 ODI wickets and also surpassed Cathryn Fitzpatrick to become highest wicket-taker in women ODI history

The postage stamp has been issued in the honour of veteran female cricketer Jhulan Goswami on for her contributions in Indian sports. The stamp was unveiled at the Calcutta Sports Journalists' club in the presence of former India captain Sourav Ganguly. In May 2017, Jhulan Goswami surpassed Cathryn Fitzpatrick to become highest wicket-taker in women ODI history. She is also the first woman to take 200 ODI wickets and recently she has been commemorated for her feat in cricket. The stamp features her photo alongside a photo of the Victoria Memorial in Kolkata. See the stamp: How good is this!!! To commemorate the fact that Jhulan Goswami became the 1st player to reach 200 ODI wickets. #womenscricket @BCCIWomen pic.twitter.com/Pjo5y4VPP8 — Lisa Sthalekar (@sthalekar93) April 21, 2018 × Jhulan made her career debut in the year 2002 and has taken total 243 wickets including Test and ODI format.

Star pacer Jhulan Goswami honoured with postage stamp

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