PT Usha Calls for Athlete-First Governance to Shape India’s Sporting Future

The future of Indian sport must be guided by athlete-first governance , Indian Olympic Association ( IOA ) president PT Usha said on Sunday. Speaking on Day 3 of the Golden Jubilee celebrations of the Sports Journalism Federation of India (SJFI) Annual Convention , Usha emphasised that the preparation, welfare, and development of athletes must remain the highest priority for administrators and sporting bodies.

“ Athlete-first governance must guide the future of Indian sport. Their preparation, welfare and development must remain our highest priority ,” she said, highlighting that India stands at a pivotal moment in its sporting journey. Over the past decade, the country has witnessed improved infrastructure, scientific training, and stronger institutional support, helping athletes compete confidently on the global stage.

However, Usha also acknowledged ongoing challenges in sports governance , including political interference, lack of transparency, and uneven development across disciplines , which have hindered the potential of grassroots talent. “The real strength of Indian sport lies in the villages, towns, and schools where young talent is waiting to be discovered. If we continue to invest in coaching, infrastructure, and talent identification, India can consistently produce world-class athletes,” she said.

During a panel discussion, IOA CEO Raghuram Iyer said India is at an inflection point in sports, with growing ambition, investment, and participation shaping the country’s future as a sporting nation. He stressed the need to build a strong sporting ecosystem, where community-level participation feeds into elite performance, and the most talented athletes receive the resources to reach the highest levels.

Iyer also highlighted India’s aspirations to host major international sporting events , citing the 2030 Commonwealth Games and the bid to host the 2036 Olympic Games as part of a broader strategy to strengthen infrastructure and professionalise administration.

The Grand Sports Conclave , organised by the Delhi Sports Journalism Association (DSJA) , brought together administrators, corporate leaders, broadcasters, and members of the sports media to discuss the evolving landscape and future direction of Indian sport. The event reinforced the call for reforms prioritising athlete welfare, transparent governance, and long-term planning to ensure India emerges as a consistent sporting powerhouse.