New Delhi, August 25, 2026: Olympian and Arjuna Award-winning table tennis player G. Sathiyan stressed the need for sustained support from the government, corporate sector, sponsors, leagues and the wider sports industry to help India emerge as a global sporting powerhouse.

Speaking at SPORTSCOM’s Annual Session and the second edition of the ‘Giving Wings to Dreams’ Conclave at Shangri-La Eros, Sathiyan said athletes can succeed only when backed by a strong ecosystem. He also highlighted the importance of grassroots visibility in encouraging parents and youngsters to view sport as a viable career.

Senior government officials outlined several initiatives aimed at strengthening India’s sports ecosystem. Hari Ranjan Rao, Secretary, Sports, Ministry of Youth Affairs & Sports, discussed the proposed National Sports Policy, Sports Governance Act, National Sports Board, National Sports Tribunal and Sports Goods Manufacturing Scheme.

Minister of State for Skill Development and Entrepreneurship Jayant Chaudhary highlighted sport’s potential to create jobs and entrepreneurship opportunities across coaching, sports science, nutrition, technology, manufacturing and event management.

Officials also discussed India’s whole-of-government approach towards its 2036 Olympic host bid, along with efforts to promote indigenous disciplines and grassroots participation.

Manufacturing was another key focus, with NITI Aayog’s Sanjeet Singh outlining a target of $8 billion in sports goods exports by 2036. Industry leaders called for manufacturing clusters, better certification facilities and improved infrastructure.

The conclave also marked a leadership transition at SPORTSCOM. After eight years as president, Jalaj Dani handed over the role to Vivek Singh, who called for greater audience engagement as sports compete with the wider entertainment industry.