New Sports Governance Framework: Phased Rollout & Points to Note

Select provisions of the National Sports Governance Act, 2025 have come into force with effect from January 1, 2026. The phased implementation of the Act is intended to facilitate a seamless transition to the new framework.

The provisions which have been brought into force relate, inter alia, to the establishment and governance framework of National Sports Bodies; the constitution of the National Sports Board; compliance requirements applicable to National Sports Bodies; privileges and duties of recognised sports organisations; constitution of the National Sports Tribunal; and the rule-making powers of the Central Government.

Soon afterwards, the government set in motion the process of selection of Chairperson and Members of the National Sports Board, through the notification of the National Sports Board (Search-cum Selection Committee) Rules, 2026, on January 8, 2026.

The government then notified the National Sports Governance (National Sports Bodies) Rules, 2026, on January 12, 2026. These rules set out the composition of the general body and executive committee, election procedures, and disqualification criteria for members of National Sports Bodies. They differ from the draft released in October 2025 on a few key aspects. For instance, the notified rules prescribe a detailed election schedule for a National Sports Body, with specific timelines for each stage, including preparation of rosters of sportspersons of outstanding merit, appointment of the Electoral Officer, notification of the election date, and release of draft and final electoral rolls, all to be completed before specified days prior to the expiry of the term of the incumbent Executive Committee.

Points to Note

• Sports organisations recognised as National Sports Bodies by the Central Government before the Act’s commencement will be deemed to have Board recognition under this Act, with its provisions applying mutatis mutandis.
• Every National Sports Body must amend its bye-laws to conform to the provisions of the new Act within six months. The Central Government may, upon application, grant a 12-month relaxation of provisions of the National Sports Governance (National Sports Bodies) Rules, 2026, from their commencement, provided the reasons are recorded in writing.
• To ensure a smooth transition, NSFs with upcoming elections may defer their elections until December 31, 2026. This one-time extension does not apply where courts have issued specific directions.