Context
Recent information disclosed under the Right to Information (RTI) Act has shown that funding contributions to the National Sports Development Fund (NSDF) have declined significantly over the last three years.
About National Sports Development Fund (NSDF)
- The National Sports Development Fund (NSDF), established in 1998 under the Charitable Endowments Act, 1890, was created to provide financial support for the promotion and development of sports in India.
- The fund receives contributions from the government, corporate sector, charitable organisations, Non-Resident Indians (NRIs) and individual donors.
- It aims to support various sports development initiatives with greater flexibility and efficiency.
Functions and Objectives
- NSDF supports athletes and sporting disciplines to achieve excellence at national and international levels.
- It provides assistance for specialised coaching, advanced training and capacity building of sportspersons and coaches.
- The fund also supports the development of sports infrastructure, training facilities and procurement of sports equipment.
- It promotes research, innovation and international cooperation for the overall advancement of sports in India.
Governance Structure
- NSDF is administered by a Council constituted by the Central Government and chaired by the Union Minister for Youth Affairs and Sports.
- The Council includes senior sports officials and representatives from Sports Promotion Boards as well as public and private sector organisations.
- It is responsible for policy formulation and overall management of the fund, while day-to-day operations and grant approvals are handled by an Executive Committee headed by the Sports Secretary.
