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India Unveils Draft Sports Policy for Modernization and ProgressThe Ministry of Sports has released a Draft Sports Policy for public consultation, aiming to modernize and update the current framework in line with India's evolving sporting landscape. The policy, once finalized, will serve as a model for states that have yet to establish their own sports policies.The draft policy emphasizes a "Whole-of-Government Approach" to ensure coordination among various agencies involved in talent identification and nurturing. It calls for improved recruitment policies and procedures across ministries and departments to enhance career progression for sportspersons.The policy also focuses on enhancing welfare and support systems for athletes, including the development of effective programs for talent identification at the grassroots level. A dedicated portal will be created to provide information on sports recruitment across central ministries, improving accessibility and transparency.During the fourth meeting of the General Council (GC) of the Khelo India Scheme, Sports Minister Mansukh Mandaviya reviewed the progress of the scheme and held discussions on improving sports infrastructure and facilities. He emphasized the need for collaboration among various stakeholders, including state governments, union territories, and the general public.The meeting also included a review of the progress on the unified sports infrastructure database under PM Gati Shakti. The minister directed the collation of data from states, sports federations, and other entities to create a comprehensive inventory of all sports infrastructure in the country.The Draft Sports Policy is a significant step towards modernizing India's sporting ecosystem and creating a conducive environment for athletes to excel. It is expected to provide a roadmap for the development of sports in the country and contribute to India's success on the global stage.

Mansukh Mandaviya, the former Union Health Minister who played a pivotal role in India's COVID-19 response, has been appointed as the new Minister of Sports and Youth Affairs in Prime Minister Narendra Modi's cabinet. Mandaviya, who represents the Porbandar Lok Sabha constituency in Gujarat, replaces Anurag Thakur, who held the post for nearly three years.Mandaviya's appointment comes at a time when India is preparing to host the 2036 Olympic Games. During Thakur's tenure, India achieved its best-ever performance at the Olympics, winning a record seven medals in the Tokyo Games. Thakur also oversaw the revision of criteria for government jobs for medal winners in Khelo India competitions.Mandaviya, who was entrusted with the health portfolio during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, is credited with ramping up the supply of oxygen and medicines and overseeing the vaccination program. He is expected to bring his experience in crisis management and public health to the sports ministry.Raksha Khadse, a three-time BJP MP from Maharashtra, has been appointed as the Minister of State (Sports) under Mandaviya. Khadse, who represents the Raver Lok Sabha constituency, is the daughter-in-law of Eknath Khadse, a former NCP leader who recently returned to the BJP.The appointment of Mandaviya and Khadse is seen as a move to strengthen the BJP's presence in Gujarat and Maharashtra, two key states in the upcoming 2024 Lok Sabha elections.