By Satyam Trivedi
The journey of transformation in India’s sporting landscape has begun, powered by the progressive and forward-looking National Sports Policy. This policy doesn’t just focus on medal tallies or momentary glory; it lays down a comprehensive vision to build a thriving sports ecosystem across the country. As part of the private sector actively investing in competitive leagues and grassroots development, the alignment between the government’s vision and private sector initiatives offers an opportunity to reshape how India nurtures talent, builds a robust ecosystem, and views sports as an economic force. Many state government schemes are increasing investment in developing sporting infrastructure, including Olympic-level facilities.
While the Government’s Khelo India scheme pioneers this initiative, many private players also contribute through private-public partnerships. The new policy recognises that to build India into a global sporting powerhouse, the private sector must be an equal participant.
Aim to Build a Holistic Sporting Ecosystem
The National Sports Policy aims to foster economic growth through sports-related industries and activities, and to establish sports as a viable career option for the youth. GMR Sports treats sports as a business vertical, aiming for a self-sustained ecosystem. With a comprehensive investment strategy, which includes league and franchise-level investment, such as the Indian Premier League (IPL), Pro Kabaddi League (PKL), and Rugby Premier League (RPL), as well as grassroots-level sporting investments like High Performance Centres, training academies, and long-term sports infrastructure assets, GMR Sports aligns with the government’s vision to build the sports economy in India.
One of our significant strides towards popularising Olympic sports (Rugby 7s) in India has been through our association with Rugby India. Recently, the Rugby Premier League (RPL), the world’s first franchise-based Rugby 7s league, was launched in India in partnership with Rugby India. From supporting an Olympic sport to bringing international talent to our shores and ensuring equitable opportunities for both Indian and global players, RPL represents what the future of Indian sports can and should look like.
Through structured contracts, coaching, and media exposure, the players are now part of a league that values and monetises their skills, aligning with the vision of the National Sports Policy.
Strategic Investment in Grassroots Development
One of the most heartening elements of the National Sports Policy is its focus on grassroots talent. The policy aims to develop a robust talent identification system to nurture future champions and encourage mass participation. From investing in indigenous sports like Kabaddi and Kho Kho to creating opportunities for year-long engagement, we believe that sport should become a viable career option.
In the lead-up to every season in cricket, kabaddi, and kho kho, we work closely with local associations to scout and nurture talent from across the country. We also believe that leagues and franchises can ignite economic activity far beyond the field, from local coaches and physiotherapists to merchandise vendors, venue operators, and digital content creators. This multiplier effect, which the National Sports Policy envisions, is already being seen on the ground.
India is entering a golden era of sport, and by the next 30 years, we have the opportunity to become a sporting superpower. As a private player, we welcome the clarity and conviction that the National Sports Policy entails, which will not only build athletes but also create a foundation for a healthier, happier, and stronger India. As sports professionals, we are ready to do our part in turning India into a nation where sporting excellence is not the exception but the norm.
(Satyam Trivedi, CEO, GMR Sports.)
Views are personal, and do not represent the stance of this publication.
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