essay on sports culture in india

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How India is adapting Sports Culture and becoming a Global Sports Hub

In the last decade, India has witnessed a huge rise in the number of sports being played professionally and for leisure. The government has also been proactive in allocating funds to enable Indian sportspersons to showcase their talent globally. In India, sports and academics are also blending to provide younger people access to proper fitness, training, and mentoring to pursue sports professionally. Let’s take a broader look.

Sporting Events  

As a nucleus for sports and sporting businesses globally, a large number of investors are now backing sports commercially. What began with the Indian Premier League to portray the fan-following cricket has always had in India, sporting events have now moved onto various other sports with leagues being established and cheered on by millions of people. Taking a note from countries like Europe, where football leagues are celebrated like festivals, India has banked on sports to generate newer avenues of revenue and, in turn, enrich the nation into becoming a sports hub. 

In the last few years, the Indian sports culture has developed immensely – India has already laid the foundations for events such as the Indian Premier League (cricket), Indian Super League (football), Pro Kabaddi League (kabaddi), Premier Badminton League (badminton), and Pro Wrestling League (professional wrestling). These leagues have taken their place in the Indian calendar and are played annually with a tremendous amount of enthusiasm. 

Image Source-BW Businessworld

• Backed by influential people: These leagues are backed by some of the most influential people in India – from sportspersons to celebrities and the largest corporates; these leagues are sponsored with a massive amount of fanfare, thus leading to an increase in their marketing and public recognition. 

Image Source- Hindustan Times

• Infrastructure: India has some of the world’s best infrastructure when it comes to sports – from stadiums and grounds to even entire villages dedicated to games; there is a huge amount of support already in place to host matches and games and train people. A large number of international sports players have also commented on how great India’s infrastructural abilities are. 

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• Providing platforms to budding talent: The advent of these leagues has opened up spaces for a huge number of Indian professional sports players. Earlier, only a handful of Indian players had the opportunity to gain recognition globally for their skill and talent – now, with these domestic leagues, more and more players have the ability to train and interact with players of international repute and showcase their talent.
• Creating more employment: Transforming into a sports cultural hub doesn’t mean that only sports players are at the forefront. The establishment of these leagues has opened up employment in vast spaces in the sporting field. From giving access to commentators, media personnel, content creators, and unskilled workers alike, India’s conversion into a global sports hub is beneficial for a huge segment of the population. 
• Smaller events: The advent of leagues and infusion of the importance of sports has even trickled down to smaller events being hosted – be it at a community level or a corporate level; there are many people who have begun to organize events to increase camaraderie, bonding, and motivation. 

Image Source-Wellness Interactive

Sports Schools 

With a large number of opportunities opening up for people to be involved in and engaged with sports, sports schools in India are also blending academics with holistic professional sports development to help students pursue their dream. Be it cricket, tennis, badminton, swimming, or any other sport, India has a large number of academics, schools, clubs, and a dedicated stream of mentors that promote learning sports. 

With a huge shift in society’s mindset, today, India is a hub where a young child can dream of becoming a professional sports player and pursue it along with proper academics. The Sports School, Bangalore, is one such school that provides all-rounded academic and sporting education and training to young children. The Sports School also has tie-ups with professional mentors – for example, Robin Uthappa helps train budding cricketers or Pullela Gopichand mentors budding badminton enthusiasts. 

The Sports School

Students are encouraged to train professionally while also gaining academic knowledge. Schools like this one go a long way in enabling India to become a global sports hub, right from an individual’s nascent learning stages, to helping them reach international levels. The Sports School is also a landmark in terms of influencing other schools and academies to follow suit and provide children with a blend of sporting and academic prowess. 

India – The Global Sports Hub

Sports is one of the greatest binding factions of our country. Indian sportspersons have so much potential and talent; they have made substantial impacts in global sports. Today, people may have different opinions on politics, science, or business, but the one thing that breaks it all down is a sporting event. India has adapted really well into the sports culture and stands proud as an example to other nations. 

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Mustafa Ghouse (born 19 August 1980) is the Chief Executive Officer of JSW Sports, the sports vertical of The JSW Group. The JSW Group owns and operates Indian Super League club Bengaluru FC and Pro-Kabaddi League team Haryana Steelers. Ghouse is also the Director at JSW Sports’ Indian Premier League franchise Delhi Capitals.

Prior to his involvement in Management of Sport, Ghouse was a professional tennis player who represented India at the 2002 Asian Games in Busan, South Korea and the 2006 Asian Games in Doha, Qatar, winning a bronze medal in the Men’s Doubles event at the 2002 edition with partner, Vishal Uppal.

Pullela Gopichand (born 16 November 1973) is a former Indian badminton player. Currently, he is the Chief National Coach for the India national badminton team. He won the All England Open Badminton Championships in 2001, becoming the second Indian to achieve this feat after Prakash Padukone.He runs the Gopichand Badminton Academy. He received the Arjuna Award in 1999, the Dronacharya Award in 2009 and the Padma Bhushan – India’s third highest civilian award – in 2014

Rohan Bopanna is a global doubles phenomenon, ranked as high as no. 3 in the world. He has represented India in the Olympics, Davis Cup, and Hopman Cup. Rohan won the 2017 French Open Mixed Doubles title, 16 ATP Tour doubles titles, and has consistently ranked within the top 15 in the world.

Shikha Tandon (born 20 January 1985) is an Indian former swimmer from Bangalore, India. Tandon has won 146 national medals, and 36 medals in international competitions, including five gold medals. Currently, she is a member of USADA’s science team, assisting in the daily operation, development, and maintenance of the resources, reporting, and projects critical to USADA’s scientific initiatives.

Bapu Krishnarao Venkatesh Prasad (born 5 August 1969), is a former Indian cricketer, Cricket Coach, Commentator who played Tests and ODIs. He made his debut in 1994. Primarily a right-arm medium-fast bowler, Prasad was noted for his bowling combination with Javagal Srinath.

He is the bowling coach for Kings XI Punjab in the Indian Premier League, having formerly performed the same role for the Indian cricket team from 2007 to 2009.

He currently serves as Deputy General Manager for Canara Bank.

Vickram Kanth (born 11 April 1987) is an Indian field hockey player who plays as a defender. He was part of the Indian team that won gold at the 2007 Men’s Hockey Asia Cup, as well as the teams that won bronze at the 2007 Sultan Azlan Shah Cup and silver at the 2008 Sultan Azlan Shah Cup.

Dr. Vivek Jawali is Chief Cardiothoracic & Vascular Surgeon and as a Chairman, he heads the Department of Cardiovascular Sciences at Fortis Hospitals, Bangalore. Dr. Jawali has also been nominated as a council member to the newly constituted Medical Council of India (MCI), the premier statutory body that governs the standards of medical education and recognition of medical qualifications in the country. He is also on the MCI’s academic council.

He is a pioneer in minimally invasive cardiac surgery in India and has performed over 18,000 cardiothoracic & Vascular Surgeries till date. He performed India’s first beating heart bypass surgery in 1992 and performed India’s first minimally invasive bypass surgery(MIDCAB)in Sept 1994. Dr. Jawali did India’s first Awake Cardiac surgery (Surgery without GA or ventilator, done under continuous high thoracic epidural) in June 1999. He also performed world’s 1st awake open heart surgery (a 74 yrs patient underwent triple bypass with aortic valve replacement without G.A. or a ventilator) in April 2002.

Dr. Jawali was the president of the Indian Association of Cardiovascular and Thoracic Surgeons (IACTS) in 2008. He is the founder member of the International Society of Minimally Invasive Cardiac Surgeons (ISMICS) and is the only Indian on the editorial board of its journal – Innovations in Cardiac Surgery. He is also the council member of the Asian Association of Cardiothoracic Surgeons. He has been the Vice President of the Indian College of Cardiology. He is on the editorial board of the journal of Indian Association of Cardiothoracic Surgeons (IACTS), journal of Cardiac Anaesthesia, CTSNET (a comprehensive global website of cardiac surgeons around the world).

Srinivas is the Co-Founder at The Sports School. He is also the founding partner at o3 Capital and co-heads the investment banking division. Srinivas has more than 19 years of investment banking experience and has been instrumental in development of o3 Capital’s investment banking practice.

Prior to o3 Capital, Srinivas was with TAIB Bank – Bahrain, where he focused on setting up their investment banking practice in India. Srinivas holds an M.Com degree from Bangalore University and is a CFA from ICFAI, Hyderabad.

Dr. Chenraj Roychand is the Founder Chairman of JGI Group. A visionary leader, educationist, social entrepreneur, and angel investor, he has been promoting the educational and entrepreneurship sectors in India for more than two decades. Dr. Chenraj Roychand incepted JGI Group in 1990 with the aim of providing quality educational and entrepreneurial opportunities to the masses.

Dr. Sankar UV is the Director of The Sports School and has worked as a Sports Director in one of the leading Universities- Jain University.

He began his over 25 years long career with a stint in Sainik School in Bijapur, where he spent his formative years in an atmosphere charged with the duty, dedication, and physical perseverance. These formative years stood with him in good stead, during his PUC (XI and XIIth Std) at KCP Science College, Bijapur, through a BA Degree at St. Joseph’s Arts and Science College, Bangalore. Always a fitness enthusiast, Dr. Sankar UV focussed his attention towards a Bachelor’s Degree followed by a Masters in Physical Education at Rama Krishna Vidyalay, Maruthi College of Physical Education, Coimbatore in the year 1991 to 1993. He acquired a Diploma in Athletics from Nethaji Subhaschandra National Institute of Sports (NSNIS), South Centre, Bangalore, in 1994.

Dr. Sankar UV joined Sri Baghwan Mahaveer Jain College (SBMJC) in 1995 with all the determination of a dedicated teacher and endurance of a marathon runner to set his vision of molding students in high achievers.

A simple glance at the row of accomplishments of his students is enough proof of his impact on his students. The list below is a narration of the achievements of his proteges at the National Level in sports like Cricket, Basketball, Swimming, Hockey, Badminton, Tennis, Shooting, Volleyball, to name a few. Olympians like Gagan Ullalmath, Sharath Gayekwad appears at the beginning of the endless list, followed by stars like Rehaan Poncha, Varun Aaron, Adithya Prakash, Khalin Joshi, Rakesh Manpath, Prakash Jolly, Surabhi Tipre, Karun Nayar, Shankar Patil, Abrar Kazi, H S Sharath, Aaron D’Souza, K.L.Rahul, Mayank Agarwal, Poorvisha Ram, Jacquelina Rose Kunnath, Fariha Zaman, Diya, Shreya Gopal, Poorva Kiran Shetye, Trishul Chinnappa, K.V. Siddharth, Samarth Ravikumar. Other names include stars like Pankaj Advani, Robin Uthappa, Shikha Tandon, Anup Shridhar, Sheetal Gautam, Rohan Bopanna, Hari Prasad, Rohith Havaldar, Kaushal, Ravikumar, Manish Pandey, Ajay R.M., Sanjay Raj, Gautam Dhiman, Asha Nandakumar, Anit Verma, Abhishek Bakshmi, Bharath B Raj, Aswini Jayram, etc.

His belief is to impart training and mentorship of the highest standards to build confidence, while also enabling and empowering each sportsperson to achieve higher degrees of mental and physical composure. He supports and encourages athletes that want to pursue their training without letting go of their education.

With over 40 years of experience in Industrial and Project Management, Gopal Anand is known as a turnaround specialist. He is the Indian Representative of DCD London and Mutual PLC, specialized in Trade finance and Properties. He was the Project and Regional Manager of the largest Diary Project “Operations Flood” which led India to be self-sufficient and become the world’s largest milk producer and exporter.

Anand has graduated in Bsc (Hons) Mathematics from Delhi University and received an MBA from XLRI, Jamshedpur.

Mr. Mahadeva.T, is an Engineering Graduate having over 25 years of industry experience in project management of software and infrastructure development companies. During Initial stages of his career, he has worked in Software Companies in India and United States. Since, year 2000, he has been associated with ‘Nandi Infrastructure Corridor Enterprise Ltd’, in the execution of the prestigious ‘Bangalore-Mysore Infrastructure Corridor Project’.

Presently, he is the Vice-President of the Company in-charge of acquisition, managing, development of lands and infrastructural facilities, and a key strategist for improvement of Toll Management System. He is also a Board member in many other notable Infrastructure Projects and Project Management Firms.

With over 18+ years of experience in investment banking and agri business, Priyatham leads the business diversification initiatives of Sam Agri Group while handling finance and international marketing.

Priyatham completed his graduation from BITS Pilani and his masters from IIM-B.

Mr. KR Choudary is a fellow member of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of India with strong expertise in Project Consultancy and management Consultancy. He commenced his career with his own firm M/s. KR Choudary & Co, Chartered Accountants and has a rich experience of more than 20 years.

During his career, he has handled various assignments which include statutory audits of large PSUs, statutory and internal audits of Public & Private limited companies engaged in various field from manufacturing to chit funds, as well as Management Audits. He is a specialist in project financing with several successful fund raising cases under his belt.

He is an active member of FKCCI (Federation of Karnataka Chamber of Commerce and Industry) and sits on the Committee on Corporate Affairs & CSR.

Meena N is a Director at The Sports School. She also serves on the board of Inventus Financials Pvt Ltd, a boutique financial advisory firm. She is a a post graduate in commerce from Bangalore University and has over 10 years of teaching experience.

A renowned Professor of Electronics with a passion for academic and student development and history of success in developing effective strategies to overreach curriculum goals. 21 years of teaching experience has established him as an accomplished teacher, excellent guide and effective leader. Presently, working in conjunction with professionals, paraprofessionals, management and administrative staff to enrich and maintain high reaching standards at The Sports School – a perfect place to nurture talents of sports and pursue academic goals.

Prof. A.S Venkatesan has authored a text book named “A Text Book of Electronics for II PUC.” He has designed and developed curriculum based online video classes for II PUC students in Electronics, in collaboration with makemelearn.com.

Masters in Mathematics from Annamalai University & bachelors in Education from Ranchi University, Ms.Jayapriya is pursuing MSc (Statistics) currently. She is ranked 41 nationally in Mathematics in the Teacher’s Olympiad (2018) and received the best National Mathematics teacher’s award in 2017 from Indian Didactics Association. She has acquired the Marker’s accreditation from Cambridge. She is an executive committee member for the Association of Mathematics Teachers of India. She has presented papers in the National Conferences of NCERT. She has been associated with the JGi group for the past 10 years.

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Reshma Maruri

Former India Number 1 – U16 & U18 girls

I am Reshma Maruri and I am doing my 2nd year BBA in The Sports School. I was ranked number 1 in the AITA Indian National rankings among the under-16 and under-18 girl’s categories. Before coming to The Sports School, I had to travel to different places for tennis training, fitness, physio, and school and this was very time-consuming. After joining the BBA course here, everything we require for competition training is easily accessible and neatly coordinated as all the facilities are made available in one place. We have world-class facilities and a well-equipped gym and also the teachers here are very supportive in helping us balance both sports and academics. I am able to perform well in both education and competition because of the well-designed sports ecosystem at TSS

R. Ananth is a veteran in Indian Domestic Cricket with a rich experience of more than three decades. He played an important role in bringing Ranji trophy back to Karnataka in the year 1995-96. He was also part of the team who went on to defend the Irani trophy in 1996-97. In 1996, he wrecked Hansie Cronje’s visiting South African team at Kochi, by taking six wickets.

Since retirement, he is a level 2 certified coach by National Cricket Academy (NCA), with a specialization in spin bowling. He regularly coached the spin department at zonal camps conducted by NCA. He has also been a selector for Karnataka State Cricket Association for the age groups U16 and U19 till 2001. Between 2001 – 2004 he was promoted to the Senior Selection committee and then in 2008 to the selection committee of Ranji team in Karnataka till 2010. During this period, cricketers like Manish Pandey, Abhimanyu Mithun, S Arvind, Stuart Binny, and Robin Uthappa made their entry into first class cricket.

He worked as Asst. Director in Karnataka State Cricket Academy from 2009 to 2014 and was responsible for setting up Zonal Cricket Academies in Karnataka and also conducted coach’s education program in zonal centres.

An ITF Level 3 coach and AITA Coaches Education Tutor, Balu has over 29 years of coaching experience, and has worked with several of India’s top players including Prajnesh Gunesawaran, Sriram Balaji, Vishnuvardhan etc. He is also the former National Doubles Champion in 1993.

Overlooking the Grassroots and Youth Development programs at Bengaluru FC Head of Coaching – FC Utrecht Academy Phase Coach and Head of Individual Player Development – Arsenal First team assistant and opponent analyst – VFL Wolfsburg Head of youth education – Willem II.

Coach Brhamastafany Dhanu Utomo, who hails from Indonesia, is a BWF Certified Level 1 Badminton Coach. He has coached various National & International Laurels. Dhanu has been a Former Coach at Badminton Association of Malaysia. He has also been a former Sparring Partner for Indian National Badminton Team. As a player, he has been finalists at various tournaments in Malaysia. Currently he is coaching at Pullela Gopichand Badminton Academy and has joined The Sports School as Head Badminton Coach.

Suhitha Maruri

2nd PUC at The Sports School

Hi, I am Suhitha Maruri. I am currently ranked number 2 in the AITA U18 girl’s National rankings. I am pursuing my 2nd PUC at the Sports School. My ambition here is to prepare to play all the grand slams and represent India in the Olympics. After joining, all the facilities needed like yoga, gym, physio, and training center are very accessible and nearby. This makes it very convenient for us to train consistently. With a lot of tournaments to play, it is a challenge to balance studies and tennis. However, the teachers here are supportive and coordinate with our calendar. This helps me balance my academics equally well.

Footballer at TSS

I am studying with The Sports School since October 2020. The academics are conducted very effectively by TSS teachers. My football coaching classes conducted by highly experienced coaches from Bengaluru FC. I thank all my teachers and coaches for giving me the opportunity to be a part of this fantastic program at The Sports School and helping me get to the next level.

Nirmanyu Singh

I have been studying with The Sports School since October 2020. The academics are conducted very effectively by TSS teachers. My football coaching classes are conducted by highly experienced coaches from Bengaluru FC. I thank all my teachers and coaches for giving me the opportunity to be a part of this fantastic program at The Sports School and helping me get to the next level.

From Ancient Roots to Modern Glory: India’s Sports Story

by admin | Oct 16, 2023 | Uncategorized | 0 comments

India’s performance at the recently concluded Asian Games was a shining example of a sleeping giant slowly awakening. A nation of a billion people that often struggled in sports in the past, woke up to an inspiring medal tally of the 2022 Asian Games held in Hangzhou, China. Our athletes scripted history by winning an astounding 107 medals, marking it the highest medal tally in our nation’s sporting history. What was more astounding was that these laurels were from a multitude of sports, including athletics, wrestling, shooting, badminton, and boxing. As India continues to invest in the development of its athletes and sporting infrastructure, it’s not a question of “if” but “when” the nation will make a mark on the global stage. 

History of Indian Sports:

India, a land rich in history, tradition, and culture, has always been a hub for activity in many aspects. The sports history of India dates back to the 4th Century BCE when traditional sports such as Kho-Kho and Kabaddi originated. Dholavira, the world’s oldest terraced arena, was built in Kutch, Gujarat, around 3000 BC, evidencing the existence of sports in India. Ancient texts like the Mahabharata, written around the 3rd century BCE, mention martial arts and archery as activities that were carried out during that era. Even indoor games like Chess and Snakes & Ladders have origins in ancient India, in the form of games of Chaturanga and Gyan Chauper, respectively.

Colonial Influence:

The arrival of colonists on Indian shores brought a significant shift in the sporting culture. The British, with their love for organised sporting events, established the first cricket club in India in 1792 and greatly propagated the sport in the country.

While the gentleman’s game took centre stage, other sports like football, tennis, and golf began to find their footing. The establishment of the Calcutta Football Club in 1872 marked the beginning of organized football in India. The British influence was evident in the rules and structure of these sports, and Indian athletes were gradually drawn into these global competitions. The British also took many indigenous games and made adaptations of their own to form brand-new sports, with badminton being a prime example.

Emergence of Indigenous Sports:

As Indians adopted British sports, they also preserved their own rich sporting heritage. Kushti, or traditional Indian wrestling, continued to thrive and found its place in the Olympics. Kabaddi, a contact sport that requires agility and strength, became popular in villages across the country. These indigenous sports, with deep-rooted traditions, represented the true spirit of India’s sporting identity.

Cricket Takes Center Stage:

While other sports continued to prosper, cricket remained the heartbeat of India’s sporting landscape. The 1983 Cricket World Cup win under Kapil Dev was a historic moment. This victory not only solidified cricket’s position but also ignited a cricketing revolution across the nation. The Indian Premier League, launched in the late 2000s, further redefined cricket and made it a global phenomenon. India became a cricketing powerhouse, and that remains true to this date.

India at the Olympics:

While India hasn’t been a powerhouse at the Olympics, there have been some truly remarkable moments on the grandest sporting stage that has started a revolution in the country. Our nation has had a total of 35 medals at the Olympics, divided among various disciplines including badminton, boxing, wrestling, and shooting. India had a glorious run in the initial Olympic games in the sport of field hockey. Athletes like Dhyan Chand and his legendary prowess in field hockey inspired the nation as in 1936, India clinched its first Olympic gold medal, marking the beginning of an era of dominance in the sport. This was followed by a golden hat-trick at the next three Olympics in 1948, 1952, and 1956.

Except for hockey, India struggled to find any medals for the rest of the century, only managing to obtain one individual medal (KD Jadav’s bronze in wrestling) until the end of the 20th century. Things started changing as we entered the 21st century. The 2008 Beijing Olympics was a historic event, as India clinched its first individual gold medal when Abhinav Bindra engraved his name in history in shooting. It was also the first time in over half a century that we managed to clinch multiple medals in the same Olympics.

His triumph marked a new era for Indian sports and provided a ray of hope for aspiring athletes. The stage was set for now as the upcoming Olympics would see India win multiple medals, and the athletes who brought us glory would become household names. Today, India’s newfound love for the Javelin throw is facilitated by Neeraj Chopra, who won gold in the 2020 Tokyo Olympics, writing another remarkable chapter in our sporting history.

Rise of Badminton:

In the 1970s, a young shuttler started making waves in the badminton world. Winning medals and challenging world-beaters was India’s father of badminton, Prakash Padukone. He brought badminton to the forefront in India, winning coveted medals like the All England Championships and Commonwealth Games. This led to the sport being picked up by youngsters, giving rise to several other badminton stars like Syed Modi, Pullela Gopichand, and U Vimal Kumar.

As years passed, badminton strengthened even more, and finally, in 2012, we got our first Olympic medal as Saina Nehwal won the Bronze. The medal streak continued in the next two Olympics, with PV Sindhu clinching Silver and Bronze respectively on both occasions.

India recently celebrated another massive breakthrough as the Indian pair Satwik Rankireddy and Chirag Shetty achieved the World No. 1 ranking, becoming the first Indian pair to do so in badminton history. Satwik and Chirag have been a force to be reckoned with in the past couple of years, winning title after title. Not just in doubles, even the singles badminton shuttlers have also been on the rise. H S Pronnoy and Lakshya Sen are currently in the top 15 rankings in the world and have been title contenders in all the major tournaments in the past couple of years. This era is what many have been calling the golden age of Indian badminton, but our shuttlers are not done yet, and the world has yet to see the heights Indian badminton has to reach.

Athletics on Blistering Speed:

One of the great catalysts for India’s record-breaking Asian Games stint was its performance in Athletics. India garnered a total of 29 medals in the sport, out of the total of 107, making up almost 27% of the medals. Athletics has been one of the fastest-growing sports in the country, and a majority of the credit goes to the athletes who have been performing exceptionally well on the world stage in events like the Commonwealth Games and the Diamond League.

Para Athletes Shining:

In recent years, India has also seen a surge in the achievements of para-athletes. These remarkable athletes have not only overcome physical challenges but have also made the country proud on the global stage. Para shuttlers Pramod Bhagat, Sukant Kadam, and Krishna Nagar have been smashing it in the badminton world. Devendra Jhajharia, the para javelin throw athlete, has a remarkable two golds and a silver Paralympic medal in his collection. These are only a few examples, likewise, there are many more who with their dedication and excellence serve as an inspiration to all. The success of para-athletes further enriches India’s sporting legacy.

Conclusion:

The history of sports in India is a remarkable journey, from rich traditions to colonial influences, and post-independence glories. It’s a story of resilience, passion, and an unyielding spirit of competition. From ancient times to the modern era, Indian athletes have always managed to rise above challenges and make their nation proud on a global stage.

As we look ahead, there is no doubt that India’s sporting landscape will continue to evolve. With more players investing in sports, volunteering to put up infrastructure projects and donating to support athletes, the nation is poised to make its mark in even more diverse disciplines. As a land of over a billion dreams, India’s sporting history is far from being written in full, the future promises new stories, new champions, and new heights for sports in India, we just have to wait and watch.

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Analyse the importance of reviving the sports culture in India at the grass-root level by building a strong framework for all sports.

Topic : Government policies and interventions for development in various sectors and issues arising out of their design and implementation.

5. Analyse the importance of reviving the sports culture in India at the grass-root level by building a strong framework for all sports. (250 words)

Reference: pib.gov.in 

Why the question: The article talks about identifying grass root talent and strengthening sports infrastructure, Sports Minister recently urged states to host annual Khelo India Games to strengthen grassroots-level talent identification. Key Demand of the question: One must present a detailed analysis of the importance of reviving the sports culture in India at the grass-root level by building a strong framework for all sports. Directive: Analyze – When asked to analyse, you have to examine methodically the structure or nature of the topic by separating it into component parts and present them as a whole in a summary. Structure of the answer: Introduction: Highlight the present Sports culture in India in brief. Body: Discuss how sports culture in India has evolved from nothing to something where efforts to recognise talent is being made, To make India a sporting superpower, we need to identify talent as young as 5-10 years old and groom them to be future champions. Discuss the efforts of government in this direction, quote the programs such as Khelo India etc. Present the concerns and challenges associated, suggest solutions. Conclusion: Conclude with need and importance of identifying the talent from the grassroots.

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Nation at Play: A History of Sport in India

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Reaching as far back as ancient times, Ronojoy Sen pairs a novel history of India’s engagement with sport and a probing analysis of its cultural and political development under monarchy and colonialism, and as an independent nation. Some sports that originated in India have fallen out of favor, while others, such as cricket, have been adopted and made wholly India’s own. Sen’s innovative project casts sport less as a natural expression of human competition than as an instructive practice reflecting a unique play with power, morality, aesthetics, identity, and money. Sen follows the transformation of sport from an elite, kingly pastime to a national obsession tied to colonialism, nationalism, and free market liberalization. He pays special attention to two modern phenomena: the dominance of cricket in the Indian consciousness and the chronic failure of a billion-strong nation to compete successfully in international sporting competitions, such as the Olympics. Innovatively incorporating examples from popular media and other unconventional sources, Sen not only captures the political nature of sport in India but also reveals the patterns of patronage, clientage, and institutionalization that have bound this diverse nation together for centuries.

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Role of Sport in Aspirational India

• 30 Nov 2022
• 10 min read
• GS Paper - 2
• Government Policies & Interventions

This editorial is based on “The pivotal role of sport in an aspirational India” which was published in Hindustan Times on 27/11/2022. It talks about the importance of sport and why India should rethink its model of governing various disciplines.

For Prelims: Sports Governance in India, National Sports Development Code of India 2011, National Air Sport Policy 2022, Commonwealth Games, Samagra Shiksha Abhiyaan, Fit India Movement, National Sports Awards Scheme, Target Olympic Podium, Justice Lodha Committee, Gender Pay Parity, FIFA World Cup 2022, Artificial Intelligence, Data Science.

For Mains: History of Sports Governance in India, Current Challenges Related to the Sports Sector in India, Recent Government Initiatives Related to the Sports Sector.

A sound mind lies in a sound body. There is growing evidence that sports act as a catalyst for the development of personal and social skills among youngsters. The potential of sports to be considered as a career option gives rise to the question of its position and preference compared to other conventional career alternatives.

Pursuing sports as a career face numerous obstacles in India, including socioeconomic, linguistic, cultural, dietary habits, societal taboos, and gender bias that hinder a huge chunk of India’s young aspiring population to continue their passion for sports.

There is a need to reshape sports governance in India and look forwards towards democratisation of sports culture.

What is the History of Sports Governance in India?

• In the early 1950s , the Federal Government created the All India Council of Sports (AICS) to apprehend the declining standards of sports in the country.
• In 1982, after Asian games, the Department of Sports was transformed into the Department of Youth Affairs and Sports.
• In 1984, the National Sports Policy was initiated.
• In 2000, the Department was converted into a Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports (MYAS).
• In 2011, the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports notified the National Sports Development Code of India 2011.
• In 2022, the Ministry of Civil Aviation launched National Air Sport Policy 2022 (NASP 2022) for Aerobatics, Aeromodelling, Ballooning, Drones, Hang gliding and powered hang gliding, Parachuting etc.

What are the Current Challenges Related to the Sports Sector in India?

• The underlying feeling is that sports do not fetch a decent livelihood or make one wealthy.
• Denial of access to sports infrastructure due to poverty , concentration of stadiums and other sports avenues only in cities, lack of encouragement to girls to participate in sports, etc, have impaired the development of a positive sports culture in the country.
• This is true for sports also. Till date, the sports policy planning and implementation is centralised in the country due to the paucity of resources, this has led to many incidents like IPL Spot Fixing , Olympic Games bidding scam, Sexual harassment incidents in women’s hockey teams.
• Whether it is the most popular cricket or hockey or weightlifting, most of the sports authorities in India have come under attack due to corruption charges.
• Besides, the involvement of politicians in the administration of sports bodies for a very long period and controversies surrounding the 2010 Commonwealth Games, dented the image of sports administrators in India.
• This problem still needs to be addressed effectively, despite the creation of the National Anti Doping Agency in the country.
• Due to this the young children are becoming susceptible to many diseases at an early age , like diabetes and hypertension .

What are the Recent Government Initiatives Related to the Sports Sector?

• Samagra Shiksha Abhiyaan
• Fit India Movement
• Khelo India
• SAI Training Centers Scheme
• Sports Talent Search Portal
• National Sports Awards Scheme
• Target Olympic Podium

What Should be the Way Forward?

• The Fit India Movement mentions that the schools are also allowed to include traditional and regional games in the curriculum but making sports a mandatory component of the curriculum needs to be clarified.
• Extension of Justice Lodha Committee recommendations on BCCI to all other sports bodies will be a right step in this direction.
• There is also a need to close the gap in investment in women’s sport and promote equal economic opportunities for women and girls. BCCI's Gender Pay Parity initiative is a good step in this direction.
• The quality of infrastructure can be scaled up to the village level and regional centres should be made available for those who are serious at taking their sporting career to professional level.
• There are many jobs being created via this technological revolution in sports, especially in the field of Artificial Intelligence and Data Science. This can benefit India's young demographic dividend.

UPSC Civil Services Examination, Previous Year Question (PYQ)

Q1. Consider the following statements in respect of the Laureus World Sports Award which was instituted in the year 2000: (2021)

• American golfer Tiger Woods was the first winner of this award.
• The award was received mostly by ‘Formula One’ players so far.
• Roger Federer received this award the maximum number of times compared to others.

Which of the above statements are correct?

(a) 1 and 2 only (b) 2 and 3 only (c) 1 and 3 only  (d) 1, 2 and 3

Q2. Consider the following statements in respect of the ICC World Test Championship: (2021)

• The finalists were decided by the number of matches they won.
• New Zealand was ranked ahead of England because it won more matches than England.

Which of the above statements is/are correct?

(a) 1 only (b) 2 only  (c) Both 1 and 2  (d) Neither 1 nor 2

Sports in India Essay

Introduction.

When the Cricket World Cup is broadcasted on television, there would be millions of eyes eagerly watching it and praying for India to win. Likewise, we host and participate in many sports and games, wherein some of which we shine, and in others, we face defeat. Nevertheless, sports have been an essential part of our lives and this sports in India essay will discuss the issues centring it.

Even though India places great importance on the field of sports, we do not see much progress in the area. We have many gifted batters, hockey players, shooters and athletes, and yet we fail to bring in gold medals or cups during tournaments. The essay on sports in India will throw light on this aspect. As children will become aware of different sports and games through this sports in India essay in English, they can also write about my favourite game .

Importance of Sports in India

In this sports in India essay, we will see how sports build a feeling of nationalism and togetherness in people. Since ancient times, sports have had a special place in Indian culture and history. Earlier, cricket and polo were considered a sport of royalty, and they played them for entertainment and physical fitness.

While India followed the popularity of Cricket, Football and Hockey, it also gave equal importance to indigenous games like Kabaddi , Kho-Kho, martial arts etc. Whenever a national or international tournament is held, people watch in awe and listen eagerly to whether we have won it. In such instances, we see that all of them come together to cheer for our team. The essay on sports in India also emphasises how sports have inspired the youth to engage in physical activities and taught them essential values like teamwork , discipline, and sportsmanship.

Sports in India

Although we have reached the international level, it is disturbing to note that we have not been able to make a significant impact on the field. We will analyse the reasons behind this in the sports in India essay in English. Our country has an abundance of talented athletes and sportspeople, but we do not have sufficient financial resources to train and support them. Most of them do not see the victory stand due to a lack of proper infrastructure or advanced training facilities.

Besides, sports have been largely affected by political intervention as athletes and players are chosen based on influence rather than their skill, because of which the talented players from villages are often neglected. The sports in India essay explains that if we give ample facilities to them and encourage them to participate in sports competitions, we can bring them to the forefront of sports and thus improve the condition of sports in India.

Frequently Asked Questions on Sports in India Essay

Can you name some of india’s notable sports icons.

In every sport, there is at least one notable personality. We have the chess champion, Viswanathan Anand, cricket legend Sachin Tendulkar, hockey player Major Dhyan Chand, and tennis icon Mahesh Bhupathi.

Should we encourage children to take up sports?

Parents often think that sports are not an ideal career option for children. But we must encourage them to participate by supporting and playing and watching their favourite sport with them, as the sports activities can help in the overall development of their mind and body.

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Sports sector in India: Issues and challenges – Explained, Pointwise

ForumIAS announcing GS Foundation Program for UPSC CSE 2025-26 from 10th August. Click Here for more information.

• 1 Introduction
• 2 India’s Progression in Sports
• 3 Benefits of augmenting the Sports Sector
• 4 Issues associated with the Sports Sector
• 5 Steps taken for the sports sector
• 6 Suggestions to improve sports
• 7 Conclusion

Introduction

The conclusion of the Tokyo Olympics 2020 brought immense joy to the nation. India won its first gold medal in track and field events of the Olympics. A total of 7 medals were won, which marks India’s best score at the Olympics. However, despite this, India finished 48th in the event. Whereas Japan, with a far less population, came 3rd on the leaderboard.  

Thus, it shows that with the right guidance and hard work, it is not impossible for India to compete against countries like the US and China.  The government and the private sector should come forward to support the sportspersons and breed robust sports culture in India. 

India’s Progression in Sports

• The country has been winning more medals at international events. This time India won 7 medals (1 Gold, 2 silver and 4 bronze) at the Tokyo Olympics 2020. The country was deemed as a medal contender in multiple sporting events. 
• It is a major improvement in comparison to the last few decades when the country used to perform poorly at international levels.
• It must also be acknowledged that government support for the sport has been increasing . The government has launched many initiatives for the promotion of the sports sector in India.
• Private sector involvement in the sport has increased. Furthermore, the rise of private academies that are involved in the development of sport at various levels is helping strengthen the facilities available to our sportspeople. 
• Corporations have come forward to support individual athletes with potential, showing a depth of commitment that was absent earlier.

Benefits of augmenting the Sports Sector

Alternative careers : For those for whom opportunities are few, and jobs are scarce, sport becomes a powerful mobility device. A strong sports sector encourages an average/ poor academic student to make a career in sports.   

Health advantages: Sports induce an individual to keep his/her body in the best form for winning an event. The existence of a sports culture in turn induces the masses to adopt a healthy lifestyle just like the sportspersons.

Channelization of Youth energy : India is having a very young population and is soon going to become the world’s youngest country. In such a scenario, a robust sports sector can help in reaping the potential demographic dividend . 

Tackling numerous societal problems : Many women perceive sports as an opportunity to escape the confines of a highly regulated life. They use it as a tool to show their potential and tackle the patriarchal mindset.  Further success of sportspersons like Mary Kom, Saina Nehwal, etc. have played a pivotal role in curbing the problems of child marriage and son meta preference.

Revenue generation : Developing robust sports infrastructure in the country will allow India to host a greater number of international events. Such hosting boosts tourism in the country and results in enhancing the revenue and employment in the region.

Promotes the spirit of Unity in Diversity : People cheer for the Indian athletes and Indian teams at international events. An improvement in sports automatically fosters the spirit of brotherhood amongst the people of diverse nations.  For instance, the Pan India support enjoyed by PV Sindhu enhances belongingness between India’s north and south. 

Issues associated with the Sports Sector

Funding crunch : Indian Government spends way less than China, the US, and other better-performing countries in international sporting events. This induces athletes to do private spending for arranging good quality equipment, training and travelling, thereby creating a very big hurdle for poor people.

Resource Deficit : There is a dearth of good-quality sporting infrastructure available across the country. The government has developed some good stadiums in urban regions, but the situation is very poor in rural regions.

Attitudinal Barriers : Sports is not considered a lucrative career option in our country. Parents encourage their children to become doctors and engineers rather than sportspeople. This is reflected in the popular saying of Kheloge Kudoge hoge kharab; Padhoge Likhoge hoge nawab. It means sports will spoil your life, but academics will give you a king’s life.

High-Performance Pressure : A high degree of pressure is inflicted upon a sportsperson to perform or else be prepared to live a vulnerable life. This sometimes creates excessive mental stress in them or induces them to resort to unethical means like doping. For instance, Indian wrestler Narsingh Yadav wasn’t able to compete in the 2016 Rio Olympics due to doping scandal.

Governance Issues

Sports governance is marred with multiple issues –

• The expenditure on sports is highly skewed in favour of male athletes and urban regions, in comparison to females and rural areas.
• There have been allegations of bias and nepotism in the selection process, especially against the lower castes.
• There is more focus on post-success incentivization rather than pre-success support in India. For instance, the Haryana Government announced a 6 crore reward after Neeraj Chopra won the gold medal in Tokyo Olympics 2020.

Other challenges:

Religious Barriers : Some sports like swimming and athletics require attire that does not fully cover a woman’s body and are against the laws of some religions.

Lack of Sports Culture : India doesn’t have a sports culture wherein people enthusiastically watch sports and promote the same. However, enthusiasm is shown mainly to cricket due to which it easily attracts investment and pays the cricketers a hefty sum of revenue.

Steps taken for the sports sector

National Centre of Sports Sciences and Research (NCSSR) :   It aims to support high-level research, education, and innovation with respect to the high performance of elite athletes.  The scheme has two components: One is setting up of NCSSR and the other is focused on funding the creation of Sports Sciences Departments in Six Universities and Sports Medicine Departments in Six Medical Colleges.

Khelo India : It is a national program that aims to develop grassroots-level talent by providing them with a national-level platform.

• It is a Pan India Sports Scholarship scheme that would cover 1,000 most talented young athletes each year across select sports disciplines.
• Each athlete selected under the scheme shall receive an annual scholarship worth Rs. 5.00 lakh for 8 consecutive years .
• It is based on Gujarat’s model of “Khel Mahakumbh” in which schools and colleges from across the country participate in 27 different disciplines.

Target Olympic Podium Scheme (TOPS) : It aims to identify, groom and prepare potential medal prospects for the Olympic and Paralympic Games. Under this scheme, athletes and sportspersons will get customized training from top coaches at modern and well-equipped sports facilities and institutions. In 2020, the government also launched Junior TOPS , a similar scheme to produce Olympic winners in 2028 targeting children as young as 10 – 12 years.

National Sports Development Fund (NSDF) : It was established in November 1998 under the Charitable Endowments Act, 1890 with the aim of promoting sports and games in the country.

Suggestions to improve sports

• The Government should increase fund allocation to other sports and also ensure equitable allocation of funds across gender and regions. 
• It must offer deserving players more jobs and remuneration in order to encourage them to take sports as a career.
• Further, Transparency must be brought in the selection procedure of office bearers of the association in order to reduce nepotism in the selection of candidates.
• Parents and educational institutions must also encourage the students to excel in sports, not just in academics.  This requires an increase in the Sports quota in Universities along with the opening of more universities.  Parents can be sensitized with the support of NGOs and civil society groups to put their children in sports.  For instance, Bridges of Sports is sensitising the Siddi Community of coastal Karnataka to send their children in sports and also providing the requisite support for the same.
• The focus should also be placed on opening more domestic premier leagues like the Indian Pro Kabaddi league. This will bring more money and attention to sports other than cricket. It would also attract the youth to take up diverse sports that were otherwise seen as a risky career.
• Apart from sportsperson, the focus should be placed on creating more coaches and physiotherapists. It will help in increasing the trained manpower experts in Sports Sciences and Sports Medicine and will, in turn, reduce the dependency of the foreign experts.

The Government needs to acknowledge that Indian athletes compete less against their sporting rivals and more against the circumstances. They should be given an enabling environment to nurture themselves so as to convert the dream of “Sports for All” into reality.

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Essay on Sports Culture in India: Why India lagging in Sports Culture

Essay on sports culture in india.

Our Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi called on the youth to consider a career in sports. He encouraged the youths of the country to foster a sports culture in the country.

Despite sport being an integral part of human personality development and entertainment, India has very little to show as achievement in international sports. Till now India has had a very few big names in international sports except in some sports like cricket and wrestling.

India in recent sport events 

India’s medal tally in 2020 Tokyo Olympics and Para-Olympic are 7 and 19 with 48th and 22nd Rank respectively which is the most decorated Olympic Games in Indian history. India ranks second in list of most populated countries of the world but when we talk about metals in Olympics it won only a total of 35 medals since 1900 to Tokyo Olympics 2020 . Though India has a large youth population but there is a poor performance in the Olympics and other International games.

In the recent Birmingham Commonwealth Games 2022 , India secured 4th rank with a total of 61 medals. When more than 50 percent of India’s population is below the age of 30 years, a little more efforts and encouragement can bring more laurels in India’s bag.

Also Read: Trending Essay Topics

Why India lagging in Sports Culture

There are various reasons behind India’s poor sport culture some of them are as under:

• Lack of Sport Infrastructure and World level Training & funds
• Lack of Sport Sprit, Social support and encouragement  
• Indian society don’t consider sports as career options  
• Poor competitive environment for the Sports 
• Lack of encouragement for sports on the elementary school level

Lack of Sports infrastructure & World level Training & funds

In India there is poor infrastructure for sports which is a big hindrance in progress sports. For example; Swimming players need a swimming pool but there are very few world-level swimming pools where players can practice swimming. India spends less than one percent of its GDP on sports. Due to shortage of funds, there is a constant struggle to get sports equipment, medical support, and other types of financial support. Also there is a poor sport system to develop sport skill. Lack of world-level trainers and coaches are other important reason behind India’s lagging in sports. For example, Neeraj Chopra’s Coach is a foreign Citizen, no other javelin player can get the same facilities as they are not famous yet.

Also Read: Essay on Asia Cup 2022

Lack of Sports Spirit, Social support, encouragement

Except some games like cricket there is hardly any social support for other sports like archery, swimming, discus throw, weight lifting, kabaddi, etc. On the State level or even on the National level players and games hardly have an audience. Players of most games do not get the audience that they deserve. Audience and recognition boost the morale of players, a sport person who feels appreciated will always do more than expected.

Indian society doesn’t consider sports as career options

We all are familiar with the saying that “Padhoge Likhoge Banoge Nawab, Kheloge Khudoge Banoge Kharab”  means to lead a good life study is important but Playing Games is just an entertainment and consider as a leisure activity. The harsh reality is not different from the above-mentioned quote: many national-level players are struggling to meet both ends and accepting some not-so-glorified jobs. Except for athletes who excel at the national or International level and become famous, others leave sports early due to the absence of career opportunities.

Also Read: Essay on Commonwealth Games 2022

Lack of encouragement for sports at the elementary school level

Haryana is Called the sports capital of India because Haryana has an established culture of sport on Grass root level. But in other states, sports and physical education are seen as extracurricular activity. Children are encouraged to devote the majority of their time on studies and sports are treated as an activity not to be taken seriously.

The poor competitive environment for the Sports

Poor Bench strength development for competitiveness, we know we have very few names in most of the sports except cricket. There is no player whom one considers a role model and this culture develops Poor Bench strength development for competitiveness.

Also Read: Download 50 PDF Essays for All Exams: Click Here  

Initiative of Government to Promote Sports Culture

Government of India is constantly working to increase the Sports spirit and Culture in India. The Ministry of Sports in Sep 2014 launched the Target Olympic Podium Scheme famously known as TOPS to improve India’s Performance in the Paralympic and Olympics. Under the scheme, extra monetary assistance and training from the national and international coaches will be provided to the players. 

The Government has also launched some national Level Sports Competitions like Khelo India Programme which is a national-level event organized by the Sports Authority of India (SAI)  every Year. The programme has been introduced to revive the sports culture in India at the grass-root level. For this purpose a strong framework for all sports played in our country has been prepared which aims to establish India as a great sporting nation.

Under the programme, talented players are identified in priority sports disciplines at various levels by the High-Powered Committee. They will also be provided annual financial assistance of Rs.5 lakh per annum for 8 years.

Another Important National level sports Competition organized by Government of India is the National Games of India. In the National Games of India, Athletes from all States of India participate and perform. With time Society is also changing the famous Slogan “Padhoge Likhoge Banoge Nawab, Kheloge Khudoge Banoge Kharab” is now “Khelo Khudogo Banoge Lajavab”.

Also Read: Essay on My Vision for India 2047

Sports Culture: Way Forward

Sports is an integral part of Soft power as political Scientist Joseph Nye Jr Said “Power is an attraction through culture, political ideas, and policies rather than coercion” that military hard power exhibits. So, sports are just not an integral part of human personality development and entertainment but they are more than this. All types of sports deserve State’s and Public’s appreciation, participation, respect, importance, and attention. It’s time we encourage and inspire young talent of the country and give them top-notch infrastructure and training of the highest level to make India a sport super power.

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Sports In India Essay | Essay on Sports In India for Students and Children in English

Sports In India Essay: India is a country with a billion-plus population but in the field of games and sports it is not able to show up even against countries that are as small as one of the country’s states.

At the recently held world cup Hockey at Kuala Lumpur India lost against South Korea and against Malaysia — South Korea, a country of the pocket size. In Cricket, the Indian performance remains so uncertain it may defeat the best and lose to the worst, and then it is argued that cricket is a game of chance. Though, of course, we have the world top class among our players — Sachin Tendulkar to name one in cricket or Vishwanath Anand in chess, but then names are so few to be counted. The World Olympics come and go and India hardly can take any pride in its performance in any item getting a bronze here or silver there is the only achievement for this vast country.

Long Essay on Sports In India 500 Words in English

Short essay on sports in india 300 words in english, 10 lines on sports in india.

• What is the most popular sport in India?
• Does India have a national sport and what is it?
• What are popular sports played in India?

Long and Short Essays on Sports In India Kids and Students in English

Given below are two essays in English for students and children about the topic of ‘Sports In India’ in both long and short form. The first essay is a long essay on the Sports In India of 400-500 words. This long essay about Sports In India is suitable for students of class 7, 8, 9 and 10, and also for competitive exam aspirants. The second essay is a short essay on Sports In India of 150-200 words. These are suitable for students and children in class 6 and below.

Below we have given a long essay on Sports In India of 500 words is helpful for classes 7, 8, 9, and 10 and Competitive Exam Aspirants. This long essay on the topic is suitable for students of class 7 to class 10, and also for competitive exam aspirants.

There was a time when India had wizards in the field of Hockey — Dhyan Chand and Roop Singh, the two brothers but that was so long time back. Then the world had not caught up with the game and Hockey was treated as India’s national game. Gradually countries after countries have picked up the game, developed their own new techniques, and are displaying a marvelous achievement.

So what actually is wrong with our sports and games.

During the British rule sports and games in India were just a mere source of entertainment for the rich. The credit for promoting sports and games, then, went to the Maharajas and the Princely States. Maharaja Bhupendra Singh of Patiala adopted cricket, wrestling, and athletics. He donated the Ranji Trophy which continues to be played on the national level with pride. The great wrestler — Gama was maintained and sustained by the Maharaja and became the World Champion of his times — Rustaame Zaman.

Maharaja of Nawanagar — Digvijay Singhji hired British coaches to coach promising cricketers. Maharaja Holkar of Indore patronized players of cricket like C.K. Naidu, Mushtaq Ali, and C.S. Naidu. Maharaja of Manavdar, Bhopal patronized Hockey and so did Maharaja of Gwalior. Maharaja of Cooch Behar encouraged football and instituted the Santosh Trophy for National Championship.

With the dawn of independence and the end of the princely states, though country’s first Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru, encouraged sports, still no comprehensive sports policy could be formulated. Private sponsorers continue to patronize games like the Indian Air Lines patronizing Hockey, Cricket and Table Tennis while the Telephone industries encourage football. But this does not actually help at the national level. In spite of the Raj Kumari Amrit Kaur Coaching Scheme or the National Institute of Sports at Patiala, nothing much seems to be happening. The BCCI has huge funds and the Cricket players are getting big money but then it is not one sparrow which makes a summer. And even cricket cannot be said to be at the top of the world.

Below we have given a short essay on Sports In India is for Classes 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, and 6. This short essay on the topic is suitable for students of class 6 and below.

What our country utterly lacks is a national policy on games and sports. The country’s budget comes and goes and no one — no M.P. — no minister, none even among the public raises any voice for any substantial allotment and provision for the promotion of games and sports; while in much smaller countries the upcoming players are properly looked after by the government they are coached, trained and groomed at state expense.

Such a vast country, with such a massive population, is not able to groom up even a proper eleven for a team game or an individual or two for individual games. One knows not how Milkha Singh or P.T. Usha or Malleshwari could succeed in their own events at the international level. Their own personal devotion, effort, and dedication would have been responsible for their achievement.

What is needed is that the government should give a priority to games and sports as a means of national pride. Catch the player or sportsman young, a search should constantly be on to find talents, and once they are discovered all their responsibilities be shouldered by the government they should be mentally free from all burdens.

Intensive and expert coaching, competition, and international exposure be given to these players and athletes the country should consider them their prized possession, and they are physically, financially, mentally be inspired, and helped to win for the nation. That sense of national pride alone can inspire them to achieve the best. If South Korea, Malaysia, Sri Lanka, Argentina, Cuba, Japan, Taiwan can come up with Olympic Champions, it is a shame for India not to be able to do it. It is only the will that is lacking not the talent.

Students can find more English Essay Writing Topics, Ideas, Easy Tips to Write Essay Writing, and many more.

• Sports are good for any nation.
• Various games are played in India. India excelled in few games while failed in other games.
• A billion-plus population, India is not able to produce Olympic Champions it is a shame.
• Once India was at the top of hockey but now even that pride of place has been lost.
• During British rule, the Maharajas and Princes patronized games, and players and world-class players were produced.
• With independence, no regulated and planned sports policy formulated in the country.
• The nation’s annual budget makes no provision for games and sports.
• There are world-class players and sportsmen but they are self-made no state policy has groomed them.
• There should be a national plan and policy to encourage and patronize players and sportsmen catch them young and they be trained, groomed, and totally adopted in every way by the state then only world-class players and sportsmen can be produced.
• Even such small countries like South Korea, Argentina, Cuba, Malaysia, Sri Lanka, Japan can produce world-class players and sportsmen — India cannot which means that the ‘Will’ is not there with the state.

FAQs on Sports in India Essay

1.  What is the most popular sport in India?

In India, Cricket is the most popular sport undoubtedly.

2. Does India have a national sport and what is it?

Yes, India has a national sport and hockey is a national sport.

3. What are popular sports played in India?

Some of the Popular Sports Played in India are Cricket, Badminton, Football, Hockey, Kabaddi, Tennis, Boxing, etc.

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Essay on National Sports Day in English: 10 Lines, Short and Long Essay Ideas

National sports day , celebrated on august 29th, this day highlights the importance of physical fitness, sportsmanship, and teamwork, encouraging individuals to embrace an active lifestyle and appreciate the values embodied by sports..

10 lines on National Sports Day 

• National Sports Day is celebrated on August 29th each year in honor of Major Dhyan Chand, an Indian hockey player.
• The day highlights the importance of sports and physical fitness in our daily lives.
• Major Dhyan Chand, known for his extraordinary skills, played a crucial role in India's success in hockey.
• National Sports Day serves as a tribute to his contributions and achievements in the world of sports.
• The day encourages people of all ages to engage in physical activities and adopt a healthy lifestyle.
• Schools, colleges, and sports organizations organize various events to celebrate sports and inspire participants.
• Activities on National Sports Day include sports demonstrations, friendly matches, and fitness challenges.
• The day also features motivational talks and awards recognizing outstanding athletes and teams.
• National Sports Day fosters a sense of unity, teamwork, and sportsmanship among individuals.
• By celebrating this day, we honor the values of discipline and dedication that sports teach us and encourage a lifelong commitment to fitness and well-being.

Essay on National Sports Day in 300 Words

National Sports Day, celebrated on August 29th every year, is a special occasion dedicated to honoring Major Dhyan Chand, a legendary hockey player known for his exceptional skills. Born on this day in 1905, Dhyan Chand earned the nickname "The Wizard" because of his amazing talent on the hockey field. His contributions to Indian sports include leading the country to win gold medals in the 1928 and 1932 Olympic Games, making him one of India’s greatest athletes.

The main purpose of National Sports Day is to promote the importance of sports and physical activity. It serves as a reminder of how sports can help us stay fit, learn discipline, and work well with others. Playing sports teaches us important life skills such as teamwork, leadership, and perseverance.

On this day, schools, colleges, and sports organizations across the country organize various events and activities. These can include sports demonstrations, friendly matches, and fitness challenges. These activities are designed to encourage everyone, especially young people, to be active and adopt a healthy lifestyle.

National Sports Day also features motivational talks from famous athletes who share their experiences and inspire others to follow their dreams. Awards are given to outstanding athletes to recognize their hard work and achievements.

Essay on National Sports Day in 500 Words

National Sports Day, observed on August 29th each year, is a special day in India dedicated to celebrating sports and honoring the achievements of Major Dhyan Chand, one of the greatest hockey players in history. Born on this day in 1905, Dhyan Chand’s incredible skills and contributions to the sport of hockey make him a legendary figure. His remarkable performances led India to win gold medals in the 1928 and 1932 Olympic Games, earning him the nickname “The Wizard” of hockey.

The purpose of National Sports Day is to highlight the importance of sports and encourage people to stay active and healthy. Sports are not just about playing games; they teach us important life skills such as teamwork, discipline, and perseverance. When we participate in sports, we learn how to work well with others, set goals, and overcome challenges. These lessons are valuable in all areas of life, not just in sports.

On National Sports Day, schools, colleges, and sports organizations across the country organize various events and activities. These can include sports demonstrations, friendly matches, and fitness challenges. These events are designed to get everyone involved and promote physical activity. For example, students might participate in running races, soccer games, or basketball tournaments. There are also activities that focus on fun and fitness, such as yoga sessions and dance performances.

In addition to these activities, National Sports Day often features speeches and motivational talks from famous athletes. These athletes share their stories and experiences, inspiring others to pursue their own goals and dreams. Hearing from people who have achieved great things in sports can motivate us to work harder and strive for success.

Awards are also an important part of National Sports Day. Outstanding athletes are recognized for their hard work and achievements. This helps to celebrate their efforts and encourages others to aim for excellence in their own sports activities.

National Sports Day is not just about honoring Major Dhyan Chand’s legacy; it is also about celebrating the joy of sports and the benefits they bring to our lives. Sports help us stay fit and healthy, make new friends, and develop important skills. They also bring people together, creating a sense of community and teamwork.

By participating in the events of National Sports Day, we are reminded of the values that sports teach us. We learn about the importance of hard work, dedication, and fair play. We also get a chance to enjoy the excitement and fun that sports provide. This day encourages us to be active, to appreciate the benefits of physical fitness, and to embrace the positive values that come with playing sports.

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Essay on Indian Sports

Students are often asked to write an essay on Indian Sports in their schools and colleges. And if you’re also looking for the same, we have created 100-word, 250-word, and 500-word essays on the topic.

Let’s take a look…

100 Words Essay on Indian Sports

Overview of indian sports.

Indian sports have a rich and diverse history. Traditionally, games like Kabaddi and Kho-Kho were popular. Today, cricket is the most followed sport, with a massive fan base.

Traditional Indian Sports

Kabaddi, Kho-Kho, and Wrestling have roots in India. These games, played in rural areas, are now gaining international recognition.

Modern Indian Sports

Cricket dominates modern Indian sports. However, football, badminton, and tennis also have a growing following. Indian athletes are making global impacts in these sports.

Future of Indian Sports

The future of Indian sports is promising. With increased investment and infrastructure, India aims to excel in various international sports events.

250 Words Essay on Indian Sports

Introduction, historical perspective.

Historically, sports like wrestling, archery, and chess have deep roots in Indian culture, reflecting in epics like the Mahabharata. The Mughal era brought polo, while British colonization introduced cricket, football, and hockey, which later gained massive popularity.

Modern Scenario

In modern times, cricket dominates Indian sports, thanks to India’s triumphant 1983 World Cup. The inception of the Indian Premier League (IPL) further escalated its popularity, making it a commercial success.

Emerging Sports

However, the sports horizon in India is broadening. Leagues like Pro Kabaddi and Indian Super League (ISL) have invigorated traditional and international sports. Badminton, tennis, and shooting have also seen a rise, with Indian athletes excelling globally.

Challenges and Reforms

Despite the progress, Indian sports face challenges like inadequate infrastructure, lack of professional training, and bureaucratic hurdles. However, government initiatives like Khelo India and Fit India are aimed at promoting sports at grassroots and improving infrastructure.

Indian sports, with its rich heritage and evolving landscape, are a reflection of India’s journey. The increasing global recognition of Indian athletes is a testament to the country’s potential. With continued efforts and reforms, Indian sports can reach unprecedented heights, inspiring millions of aspiring athletes.

500 Words Essay on Indian Sports

India, a country with a rich cultural and historical heritage, has a diverse sports landscape. The country’s sports spectrum ranges from traditional games, such as kabaddi and kho-kho, to international sports like cricket, football, and hockey. This essay delves into the evolution, current status, challenges, and future prospects of Indian sports.

Historical Overview

India’s sports history is as old as its civilization. Ancient texts like the Mahabharata and Ramayana depict the existence of sports like chariot racing and archery. During the medieval period, wrestling and polo gained popularity. The colonial era introduced modern sports such as cricket, football, and hockey, with cricket eventually becoming a national obsession.

Current Scenario

Cricket is undoubtedly the most popular sport in India, with the Indian Premier League (IPL) being a global phenomenon. However, other sports are also gaining traction. The Pro Kabaddi League and Indian Super League (football) have successfully increased the popularity of their respective sports. The government’s ‘Khelo India’ initiative aims to promote a sports culture at the grassroots level.

International Achievements

Despite the progress, Indian sports face numerous challenges. Infrastructure and training facilities are often inadequate, especially in rural areas. There is a lack of a robust sports culture, and academic pressure often sidelines sports. Corruption and mismanagement in sports bodies have also hampered growth.

Future Prospects

The future of Indian sports looks promising. The success of leagues like IPL and ISL suggests a market for diverse sports. Government initiatives like ‘Fit India’ and ‘Khelo India’ aim to foster a sports culture. Moreover, with increased international exposure and better training facilities, Indian athletes are poised to make a mark on the global stage.

If you’re looking for more, here are essays on other interesting topics:

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National sports day 2024: theme, date, and significance in india.

National Sports Day is celebrated annually on August 29th in India, marking the birth anniversary of Major Dhyan Chand. This day emphasizes the importance of sports and physical activities and serves to honor Major Dhyan Chand's legacy in Indian hockey. Various events and initiatives are launched to promote sports and fitness across the nation.

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Mandaviya, Zafar Iqbal pay tribute to Dhyan Chand on National Sports Day

Mandaviya, after paying floral tributes to the statue of Dhyan Chand at the National Stadium here, said staying fit was the key to building a healthy society.

Published : Aug 29, 2024 11:33 IST , New Delhi - 4 MINS READ

Union Sports Minister Mansukh Mandaviya pays floral tribute to Major Dhyan Chand on his birth anniversary, celebrated as National Sports Day, at Major Dhyan Chand National Stadium in New Delhi. | Photo Credit: PTI

Sports Minister Mansukh Mandaviya was joined by hockey legend Zafar Iqbal in paying tribute to Major Dhyan Chand on the National Sports Day here, with the latter also emphasising on the need to focus on disciplines like table tennis and swimming for bigger medal hauls in the Olympic Games.

The birth anniversary of hockey wizard Major Dhyan Chand, who won gold medals in three successive Olympics during the pre-independence era, is celebrated as the National Sports Day.

“On the occasion of the National Sports Day, we paid a floral tribute to Major Dhyan Chand on his birth anniversary. What Prime Minister Narendra Modi says is right... that is those who play, flourish,” Mandaviya told PTI Videos after paying tribute to the legend on his 119th birth anniversary.

“The citizens of the country need to stay fit and healthy, and healthy citizens build a healthy society. And that society contributes to building and making a happy country. In 2047, to make an advanced version of India, all the citizens must remain healthy.

“And to remain fit, one must play sports. Everyone should set aside an hour to play a sports of their liking. I too will play the sport of my choosing... football on this National Sports Day,” added Mandaviya.

READ | Family man Manpreet Singh relishes hockey’s return to prominence after Paris Olympics

Former hockey captain Iqbal expressed his happiness with the Indian athletes’ performance at the recently-concluded Paris Olympics, where the country won six medals. But he also felt that a lot of hard work still needs to be done for the growth of sport in India.

“We have to work very hard for the upliftment of sports; there is no doubt about it that the contingent that had gone to Paris for the Olympics they performed really well. They have improved their position at that level,” said Iqbal.

India’s six medals in Paris included five bronze and a silver, while half a dozen of its athletes finished fourth in their respective disciplines.

Iqbal said the nation should also look for medals in sports like swimming and athletics where there is a lot of potential.

“India is doing a great job, the athletes are quite confident. We had sent 117 athletes... there are a number of medals available in swimming, table tennis, athletics, and badminton, where the team can win.

“We are improving, we are creating a sporting culture in our country... that is a big achievement and the government is spending a lot of money to give experience to the athletes. I am sure we will do better in future,” he added.

He termed the Indian hockey team’s bronze medal-winning performance a huge achievement.

“It is a big achievement as far as hockey is concerned. We went without a medal for four decades and then in Tokyo (2021) we won bronze. And now in Paris, we won another medal.

“This medal is like gold for us, and it encourages the youngsters to take up hockey seriously and play for the country. I am sure that hockey is doing pretty well,” said Iqbal, who was a member of the 1980 Olympics gold-winning side in Moscow.

He added that the team will have to develop a goalkeeper of the calibre of PR Sreejesh in very little time. Sreejesh called it a day after the Paris campaign.

“Sreejesh will no longer be there in the squad. We have to develop a replacement. Krishan Pathak is also there, he will perform equally good, I am sure,” he said.

READ | All you need to know about significance of National Sports Day & Major Dhyan Chand

“He (Sreejesh) is one of the greatest players India has produced as far as goal-keeping is concerned, he was a good leader of the team as well. He had many good qualities. We will miss him badly in the coming international competitions as well as the Los Angeles Olympics in 2028.

He added that besides Sreejesh, the Indian team might also miss stalwarts like former captain Manpreet Singh, who could quit in the near future.

“A few more may leave the hockey team, like Manpreet Singh. He has already played four Olympics, I don’t know how he does well in between to be part of the team.”

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Zafar Iqbal /

PR Sreejesh /

Mansukh Mandaviya /

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