Daijiworld Media Network - Panaji

Panaji, Sep 16: Ajay Gaude, the newly-appointed executive director of the Sports Authority of Goa (SAG), has announced that a new, updated State Sports Policy will be introduced by December 2025, replacing the outdated 2009 version currently in force.

Since assuming dual responsibilities last month as Director of the Directorate of Sports and Youth Affairs and Executive Director of SAG, Gaude has placed the drafting of this revised policy at the top of his agenda. Speaking to reporters after formally taking charge on Monday, Gaude emphasized the urgent need for an overhaul.

“The current policy dates back to 2009. In the last 16 years, the landscape of Indian and international sports has changed significantly — from rules and regulations to training methodologies and infrastructure,” Gaude said.

He added that the new policy will draw key elements from the recently launched National Sports Policy (NSP) 2025, aligning Goa's sports ecosystem with national objectives while tailoring the framework to meet the state’s unique needs.

“We will use the National Sports Policy as a foundation and build upon it with Goa-centric requirements. This will be done in consultation with all stakeholders — sports associations, experts, and journalists,” he added.

Goa’s existing policy, introduced in 2009, was designed to streamline and define the roles of various agencies involved in sports development under the framework of the 2001 National Sports Policy. However, with the 2025 national policy now in place, the state’s 2009 framework has become outdated.

The National Sports Policy 2025 represents a strategic shift in India's approach to sports, aiming to elevate the country to the status of a global sporting powerhouse, with a vision focused on excellence at major international events — including a strong push toward preparing for the 2036 Olympic Games.

Gaude acknowledged this broader vision, saying:

“The Prime Minister has a clear mission to promote sports across the country. Here in Goa, both Chief Minister Pramod Sawant and Sports Minister Ramesh Tawadkar are committed to taking sports to the next level.”

With an eye on development, infrastructure, talent nurturing, and international competitiveness, the new Goa Sports Policy is expected to become a cornerstone for the state’s athletic aspirations — creating a more modern, inclusive, and performance-driven ecosystem.