Goa to Roll Out New State Sports Policy by December, Says SAG Chief Ajay Gaude

Panaji, Sep 16: Ajay Gaude, the newly appointed Executive Director of the Sports Authority of Goa (SAG), has announced that a revised State Sports Policy will be introduced by December 2025, replacing the outdated framework of 2009.

Since taking charge last month with dual responsibilities as Director of the Directorate of Sports and Youth Affairs and Executive Director of SAG, Gaude has made the policy overhaul his top priority. Speaking to reporters on Monday, he underscored the need for modernization.

“The current policy dates back to 2009. In the last 16 years, the sports ecosystem — both in India and globally — has transformed tremendously, from training methods and rules to infrastructure and governance,” Gaude said.

The upcoming policy will be modeled on the National Sports Policy (NSP) 2025, launched earlier this year, while also adapting to Goa’s specific requirements. Gaude noted that consultations with sports associations, experts, and journalists will shape the final draft.

“We will use the National Sports Policy as a foundation and build upon it with Goa-centric priorities,” he explained.

The existing state policy, introduced in 2009, was aligned with the 2001 National Sports Policy and sought to streamline the roles of various agencies in sports development. However, with NSP 2025 now in place, the old framework is considered obsolete.

The NSP 2025 outlines India’s long-term ambition of becoming a global sporting powerhouse, with a vision centered on international competitiveness, grassroots development, and preparations for the 2036 Olympic Games.

Gaude acknowledged this wider national vision, emphasizing the strong commitment of both the Prime Minister and Goa’s leadership.

“The Prime Minister has a clear mission to promote sports nationwide. Here in Goa, Chief Minister Pramod Sawant and Sports Minister Ramesh Tawadkar are equally determined to elevate the state’s sporting profile,” he said.

The new Goa Sports Policy is expected to focus on infrastructure upgrades, athlete development, and talent nurturing, while also ensuring inclusivity and alignment with international standards. According to Gaude, it will act as a cornerstone for the state’s athletic future, creating a modern, performance-driven, and globally competitive sports ecosystem.