India has set an ambitious goal to be among the top five sporting nations of the world by 2047, the year that marks its 100th year of independence. Sports Minister Mansukh Mandaviya outlined this vision during the opening ceremony of the Commonwealth Weightlifting Championships 2025 in Ahmedabad, emphasizing the government’s ongoing efforts to build a strong sports ecosystem in the country.
Key Highlights Of India’s Sporting Vision
The Prime Minister has initiated major reforms like Khelo India, Fit India movement, and the Target Olympic Podium Scheme (TOPS), which collectively support athlete development and improve sports infrastructure.
The recently passed National Sports Governance Bill aims to introduce transparency, ethics, and better governance with a strong focus on athletes’ welfare and enhancing women’s representation in sports federations.
India has set a near-term goal to become among the world’s top 10 sporting nations within the next decade and is preparing a bid to host the 2036 Olympic Games.
The joint vision plans a leap to the top five in global sports rankings by 2047, showcasing India’s long-term commitment to excellence in multiple disciplines.
Hosting international competitions like the Commonwealth Weightlifting Championships signals India’s growing capability as a sports event destination.
Government initiatives are complemented by infrastructure expansion, sports science integration, and promoting grassroots participation to nurture future champions.
Sports Minister Mandaviya acknowledged the contribution of the Prime Minister’s vision in fostering a sports culture and providing athletes with world-class training and exposure.
India’s Roadmap To Sporting Excellence
The government’s multi-pronged strategy aims to produce world-class athletes through systematic nurturing, funding, and exposure. The Khelo India program encourages talent scouting and grassroots development, while TOPS provides targeted support to athletes with medal potential. Fit India promotes health and fitness among citizens to strengthen the sporting base.
The National Sports Governance Bill recently passed in the Rajya Sabha will enforce accountability and ethical management in sports bodies. It promises to make sports federations more transparent and ensure better representation for women and athletes in decision-making roles.
Momentum is building to host significant sporting events. The successful hosting of the 2025 Commonwealth Weightlifting Championships in Ahmedabad highlights India’s readiness. The International Weightlifting Federation praised the event, expressing hopes India could host top global competitions like the World Championships or Grand Prix events.
Challenges And Opportunities Ahead
India’s goal to be a top-five sports nation is ambitious, given the current landscape of global sports powerhouses. To achieve this, sustained investment in sports infrastructure, coaching, scientific support, and athlete welfare is vital. Broadening sports beyond cricket and increasing opportunities in Olympics disciplines are key.
The increased focus on women’s sports and governance reforms provide an inclusive approach that aims to empower all athletes. As India bids for mega-events like the Olympics in 2036, it will get additional impetus to upgrade facilities and organizational capabilities.
Conclusion
India’s vision for 2047 as a sporting powerhouse reflects a blend of pragmatic planning and visionary leadership. Government initiatives like Khelo India, TOPS, and the new Sports Governance Bill show a commitment to build an ecosystem where athletes can thrive. As India hosts more international events and nurtures diverse talent from grassroots to elite levels, the dream of joining the world’s top five sporting nations appears increasingly attainable.
Sources: Business Standard, Times of India, Press Trust of India
