Are we game for collaboration?

India needs greater collaboration and equality in action, where public and private institutions, corporates, and entrepreneurs pool efforts to improve its sports ecosystem

- BHAVIT SHETH

FROM A VERY young age, a number of athletes dream of representing India at the highest level of sport. However, a lot of this talent wanes over time, with key factors being the lack of structured tracks for athlete development and representation along with fewer opportunities for career advancement.

While India houses one of the largest youth populations, the success rate in global sporting events is still not proportionate, bringing to light a stark dichotomy. As much as 66% of our population is represented by youths, but only 10% of it engages in sports.

Even within this limited share, the potential of talent at the grassroots remains passive due to fewer opportunities for conventional exposure. Such talent, in comparison to elite athletes, hasn't been able to garner an equal measure of support, with the latter making more progress through focused backing and investments.

What is required is greater collaboration and equality in action — where public and private institutions, corporates, and entrepreneurs pool efforts to improve the sports ecosystem. This, along with the right balance of guidance across funding, wellness, training, and opportunity, is of prime importance to promote sports at the grassroots.