Khelo Bharat Niti: New Policy Opens Doors for Indian-Origin Athletes Abroad
The Khelo Bharat Niti, India’s latest National Sports Policy, aims to invite Indian-origin athletes living overseas to represent the country in international competitions. This new initiative marks a significant change from the earlier regulation, allowing only Indian passport holders to compete for India.
Previously, a ban established in 2008 prevented Overseas Citizens of India (OCI) cardholders from participating in sports for India. This restriction limited opportunities in popular sports such as football and tennis, affecting the nation’s overall growth in athletics.
The Khelo Bharat Niti document outlines a vision for utilizing sports as a means for peace and international cooperation. It emphasized that sports can be a powerful tool for diplomacy and building cultural connections globally. The policy encourages promising Indian-origin athletes abroad to return and represent India at various international events.
Currently, only Indian citizens can officially compete for the nation. The sports ministry is considering lifting this ban to enhance India’s sporting community. Additionally, the policy intends to promote international exchange programs in sports, fostering knowledge sharing and collaborative development.
The document highlights that sports can bridge the gap between the Indian diaspora and India, nurturing emotional and cultural ties. Special sporting events and leagues for the Indian diaspora could help reinforce these bonds.
Many sports associations, including the All India Football Federation (AIFF), support this initiative, hoping to see OCI players on the field again. Although, as of now, there are few well-known players eligible to compete if the ban is lifted.
In tennis, figures like Prakash Amritraj, son of tennis legend Vijay Amritraj, were impacted by the OCI ban. He previously represented India in the Davis Cup but was unable to continue due to the restrictions imposed after 2008.
This new policy may well bring a fresh wave of talent and strengthen India’s presence in international sports.
