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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.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has expressed confidence in India's bid to host the 2036 Olympics and has urged athletes bound for the Paris Games to share their observations on the arrangements in the French capital. Modi believes that the athletes' insights will be invaluable in helping the government prepare for the quadrennial event in New Delhi.In a meeting with Paris-bound athletes, Modi emphasized the importance of creating a sporting atmosphere in India and highlighted the ongoing efforts to develop infrastructure for the 2036 Games. He urged the athletes to observe the arrangements in Paris and provide feedback on how India can improve its preparations."We are hoping to host the Olympics in 2036, it will help in creating a sporting atmosphere (in the country). Work is in progress to prepare infrastructure for it," Modi said.The meeting was attended by the national men's hockey team, the shooting contingent, boxers, and track-and-field stars such as Neeraj Chopra. Sports Minister Mansukh Mandaviya and Indian Olympic Association (IAO) President P T Usha were also present.Modi's request for feedback underscores India's determination to host the Olympics and its willingness to learn from the experiences of other host cities. The upcoming Games in Paris will be held from July 26 to August 11, and India hopes to surpass its best-ever tally of seven medals, including Chopra's historic javelin throw gold in Tokyo.Over 100 Indian sportspersons have qualified for the Paris Games, including an unprecedented 21 shooters. India has repeatedly expressed its desire to host the Olympics and has received support from International Olympic Committee (IOC) chief Thomas Bach.However, securing the rights to host the 2036 Games will be a competitive process, with strong contenders such as Qatar and Saudi Arabia expected to bid. A decision on the host city is not expected before next year's IOC elections, where a new President will be elected.