Coaching Reforms: Task Force Recommendations to be Implemented in Phases

A Task Force established by the Department of Sports recently submitted its report, outlining strategic recommendations to build a world-class coaching ecosystem in India.

Notably, this report calls for the creation of a National Coach Accreditation Board (NCAB) as the apex national body for coach education, accreditation and governance. The Board will be responsible for setting national standards, approving coaching pathways, accrediting institutions, and ensuring consistency, transparency and quality across all sports and regions.

The report also envisions a 24/7 National Sports Science Helpline to provide on-demand expert guidance to coaches and athletes nationwide, and a National Coaches Registry and Licensing Board to maintain a centralised database and oversee all accredited coaches in India.

Under the proposed framework, licenses issued to coaches will be valid for three years, with renewal contingent on compliance with Continuing Professional Development (CPD) requirements and maintaining good standing. Moreover, a quality review will form part of the renewal process. Periodic audits of coaching practice and random performance sampling through observation or athlete feedback are also envisaged.

Union Minister for Youth Affairs and Sports, Dr Mansukh Mandaviya, has stated that the Task Force recommendations will be implemented in a phased manner, with initial steps such as the establishment of NCAB and the finalisation of the unified curriculum, envisaged in the short term, followed by the rollout of licensing and tiered pathways.