Delhi: The Indian government, through the Sports Authority of India (SAI), has introduced structured standards for sports coaching aimed at improving both the education and practice of coaching across the country.

These standards are implemented through premier institutions such as the Netaji Subhas National Institute of Sports (NSNIS) in Patiala, and the Lakshmibai National College of Physical Education (LNCPE) in Thiruvananthapuram, among others.

SAI's approach includes structured coaching courses, development programs, and refresher courses that are designed to establish clear benchmarks for sports coaching in India.

These initiatives cover key aspects like educational programs, high-performance development (HPD), continuing professional development (CPD), and the selection and appointment of coaches. The implementation process includes rigorous evaluation, certification, and mandatory continuing education to ensure quality and consistency.

In line with global best practices, India's sports coaching standards incorporate international collaborations, sports science integration, data analytics, and performance monitoring. These standards are continuously updated to stay aligned with global advancements.

Union Minister of Youth Affairs and Sports, Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya, highlighted the success of these programs during a recent written reply in the Rajya Sabha, noting that the increasing number of Indian athletes securing international accolades is a testament to the effectiveness of these sports coaching initiatives.