Zero Tolerance: India Vows to Protect Integrity of Sports Against Doping
Union Minister Mansukh Mandaviya launches new research grant policy to fight doping and protect the integrity of sports in India.
India is doubling down on its fight against performance-enhancing drugs to ensure that the protecting integrity of sports remains a top priority. Union Minister of Youth Affairs and Sports, Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya, has reaffirmed the nation's "zero tolerance" stance toward doping, emphasizing that athletic victories must be the result of discipline, hard work, and raw talent rather than prohibited substances.
Speaking as the chief guest at the 10th World Association of Anti-Doping Scientists (WAADS) Quality Assurance Managers’ Meeting 2026 in New Delhi, the Minister highlighted that sports have become a fundamental pillar of nation-building under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
Boosting Science: New Research Grant Policy
To strengthen the scientific battle against doping, Dr. Mandaviya launched the Extramural Research Grant Policy of the National Dope Testing Laboratory (NDTL). This strategic move is designed to fuel research and development in the advanced detection and prevention of banned substances.
According to the Union Minister, this initiative will provide a more robust scientific foundation for India's anti-doping efforts, ensuring that the country stays ahead of the curve in detecting prohibited substances. Additionally, the NDTL Newsletter was also unveiled during the event to keep stakeholders informed.
Road to 2030 and 2036: The Bigger Picture
India's commitment to clean sports is not just about current regulations but is tied to its massive global ambitions. With the country preparing to host the Commonwealth Games in 2030 and eyeing a bid for the 2036 Olympics, the government is prioritizing international cooperation and athlete education.
Dr. Mandaviya stressed that infrastructure alone is not enough. He pointed out that a comprehensive approach is necessary, combining rigorous testing with widespread awareness. He noted that it is critical for coaches, medical professionals, and athletes to fully grasp:
- The severe implications of using prohibited substances.
- The inherent risks associated with various supplements.
- The strict responsibilities mandated under anti-doping regulations.
A New Era for Indian Athletics
The Minister noted that India's sporting ecosystem has entered a transformative phase. He credited schemes like Khelo India (Play India), Fit India, and the Target Olympic Podium Scheme (TOPS) for creating a fertile ground for young talent to excel.
The results of these efforts were evident in recent international competitions. Dr. Mandaviya highlighted the stellar performance at the 2026 Asian Games, where Indian athletes finished fourth in the overall medal tally. Furthermore, he praised the historic achievement of para-athletes at the Asian Para Games 2026, who secured a record-breaking 114 medals—the highest the country has ever achieved at the games.
Global Collaboration in New Delhi
The two-day meeting, organized by the NDTL, served as a hub for international scientific and sporting experts. Key attendees included:
- Hari Ranjan Rao, Secretary (Sports).
- Osquel Barroso, Senior Associate Director (Laboratory Science and Medicine) at WADA.
- Dorota Kwiatkowska, President of WAADS.
- Prof. (Dr) P L. Sahu, Director of NDTL.
The gathering underscored India's role as an emerging leader in the global effort to maintain a fair and clean playing field for athletes worldwide.