India has taken a decisive step towards reforming sports administration with the notification of the National Sports Governance (National Sports Bodies) Rules, 2026. These rules aim to ensure transparency, athlete-centric governance, and gender representation in national sports bodies. By clearly defining election procedures, eligibility, and accountability norms, the government seeks to professionalize sports governance and align it with global best practices.

Why in the News?

The Union Government has notified the National Sports Governance (National Sports Bodies) Rules, 2026. The rules operationalize provisions of the National Sports Governance Act, 2025.

Purpose and Scope of the Rules

The Rules provide a detailed framework for the governance of National Sports Bodies and Regional Sports Federations. They define the composition of General Bodies and Executive Committees, election procedures, and eligibility conditions. The objective is to create a transparent, accountable and athlete driven sports ecosystem while ensuring smooth transition to a statutory governance framework.

Inclusion of Sportspersons of Outstanding Merit

A key reform is the mandatory inclusion of at least four Sportspersons of Outstanding Merit (SOMs) in the General Body of every National Sports Body. To ensure gender equity, 50% of these SOMs must be women. The rules also prescribe eligibility conditions, including a minimum age of 25 years, retirement from active sports, and a one-year cooling-off period from competitive participation.

Women Representation in Executive Committees

To strengthen women’s participation in decision-making, the Rules mandate representation of at least four women in the Executive Committee of National Sports Bodies. Sports bodies are allowed to reserve specific posts for women through their bye-laws, ensuring meaningful and sustained gender inclusion in governance structures.

Tiered Criteria for Athlete Representation

The Rules introduce a 10-tier classification system for SOMs, ranging from medal winners at the Olympic and Paralympic Games to those achieving medals at National Games or National Championships. This flexible and inclusive approach ensures representation across diverse sports disciplines, recognising both international and domestic achievements.

Transparent Election Process and Disqualifications

The Rules clearly lay down step-by-step election procedures with defined timelines, from SOM applications to final electoral rolls and nominations. They also specify strict disqualification norms. Individuals convicted by a court and sentenced to imprisonment are barred from contesting elections or holding positions in General Bodies, Executive Committees, or Athletes Committees.

National Sports Election Panel and Compliance

The Rules provide for a National Sports Election Panel with at least 20 qualified members. Electoral officers’ fees are capped at ₹5 lakh. All National Sports Bodies must amend their bye-laws within six months to align with the Act. The Central Government may relax provisions for up to 12 months in special cases, with recorded reasons.

Key Summary at a Glance

Question

Q. The National Sports Governance (National Sports Bodies) Rules, 2026 were notified under which Act?

A. Olympic Charter
B. National Sports Policy 2001
C. National Sports Governance Act, 2025
D. Sports Authority of India Act