The National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 is driving a significant shift in India’s sports ecosystem by integrating sports into the formal education curriculum. Speaking at the RCB Innovation Lab Indian Sports Summit at the Padukone Dravid Centre for Sports Excellence in Bengaluru, Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Skill Development and Entrepreneurship (MSDE) and MoS for Education Jayant Chaudhary highlighted the transformative impact of NEP 2020 on sports and education.
Sports as Part of Formal Curriculum
Chaudhary emphasized that NEP 2020 adopts a multidisciplinary approach, allowing students to explore their interests, including sports, alongside traditional subjects. The policy aims to identify and nurture talent at a young age, ensuring equal opportunities for students from diverse backgrounds.
“Now we have a progressive policy, the National Education Policy 2020, which understands that you need to give a lot of freedom and exposure. You need to suss out the talent and equity in access to school children of all ages. Let them understand what their talent is, what drives them and give them that capacity to innovate and think out of the box,” Chaudhary stated.
By incorporating sports into the curriculum, the NEP provides students with structured training and professional guidance, fostering a strong sporting culture in the country.
Job Creation and Industry Growth
The sports industry in India is already creating significant employment opportunities. The manufacturing of sporting goods alone employs over 500,000 people. NEP 2020’s focus on sports is expected to further expand job opportunities in coaching, sports technology, and management.
Key Developments in the Sports Sector:
- Sports Universities: Uttar Pradesh has established the country’s first sports university, while Telangana has announced plans to open one soon.
- Centre of Excellence: IIT Madras has set up a centre for sports analytics and science, focusing on technological advancements in sports.
- Sports Goods Industry: Sporting goods manufacturing is contributing to both employment and export growth, making it a promising sector for economic development.
Telangana’s Rapid Decision-Making Approach
Jayesh Ranjan, Special Chief Secretary of Industries & Commerce and IT Departments of the Telangana Government, stressed the importance of fast decision-making in advancing the sports sector.
“Every decision will be taken at maximum at two levels, and it’ll take no more than a fortnight to respond to,” Ranjan stated.
Telangana aims to create a sports-friendly environment by cutting down bureaucratic delays and improving infrastructure to support sports at the grassroots level.
India’s Olympic Aspirations
With India aiming to host the 2036 Olympics, the government is making strategic moves to strengthen the country’s position in the global sports industry.
Prashanth Shawn Doss of Elevate highlighted India’s potential, driven by a passionate sports community and a strong economic foundation.
“We have an enormous community that is passionate and excited for change. Everyone has a vision of what India can be with proper infrastructure and support,” Doss noted.
Conclusion
NEP 2020’s integration of sports into the curriculum reflects India’s growing commitment to developing a robust sports ecosystem. With the establishment of sports universities, the rise of sports technology, and government support for grassroots development, India is positioning itself as a major player in the global sports industry.
