PT Usha calls for grassroots focus, tech adoption in sports

Indian Olympic Association (IOA) president PT Usha on Friday said India's rise as a global sporting power hinges not only on sustained success across disciplines but also on its readiness to adopt modern tools and technologies.

- Tridid Baparnash New delhi, 12 September

"Sport must be seen not as a distraction, but as a vital part of education and life. At the same time, the global sporting landscape is evolving rapidly. Technology and sports science are now central to success. Data analysis, bio-mechanics, recovery methods, nutrition plans, all of these shape champions," Usha said in her address at the PlayCom 2025 summit.

"If India wants to be among the best, we must embrace these tools and make them accessible at every level. Yet we must never forget the basics, hard work, resilience and integrity. Technology can sharpen an athlete, but character is what makes a true champion. For India to truly emerge as a sporting nation, success must be consistent and widespread, built on a strong system that nurtures talent across all disciplines," she added.

The IOA chief also emphasised the need to redefine how sports is perceived in everyday life.