In a heartfelt stride toward ensuring integrity and fairness in Indian sports, the National Anti-Doping Agency (NADA) India hosted a national conference titled “Building Together a Clean Sport Ecosystem” at the India International Centre, New Delhi. Held during Play True Week 2025, the event brought together voices from across the sporting community—athletes, coaches, administrators, medical professionals, and educators—each united by a common goal: to uphold the spirit of clean sport in the country.
The atmosphere was one of commitment and optimism as speakers emphasized the growing need for ethical sporting practices, especially as India aspires to host the 2036 Summer Olympics. In her inaugural address, Secretary of the Department of Sports, Smt. Sujata Chaturvedi, reflected on the nation’s Olympic ambitions, stressing that such a dream must be firmly rooted in a strong anti-doping framework. Her words reminded attendees that fair competition is not just a rule but a value, and that protecting the integrity of sport is a shared national responsibility.
Adding a global perspective, Dr. Mayumi Yaya Yamamoto from the World Anti-Doping Agency’s Asia/Oceania office praised India’s efforts under the global Play True campaign. She highlighted the importance of the ‘It Starts With Me’ initiative, calling it a powerful reminder that building a clean sport ecosystem begins with individual choices and collective accountability.
A particularly touching moment came with the unveiling of “NADA India’s Fair Play Guide” in ten regional languages. This thoughtful gesture will make vital information about anti-doping practices more accessible to athletes across diverse communities, reinforcing the idea that no athlete should be left behind in the pursuit of fair play. A pledge-signing ceremony further added to the spirit of solidarity, with participants reaffirming their dedication to promoting clean and honest sport.
Panel discussions throughout the day addressed complex yet essential topics such as athlete rights, Therapeutic Use Exemptions (TUEs), and the critical role of education and testing in maintaining transparency. Experts from national federations, international agencies, and medical fields shared valuable insights and called for continuous dialogue and learning.
What stood out most was the warm and inclusive tone of the event. It wasn’t just a formal gathering—it felt like a sincere coming together of people who care deeply about the soul of Indian sport. By creating a platform for collaboration and forward-thinking, NADA India not only advanced policy but also nurtured a growing culture of respect, integrity, and awareness.
This conference is a reminder that clean sport isn’t just about compliance—it’s about honor, trust, and the belief that every athlete deserves a level playing field. In bringing together so many committed voices, NADA India has taken another meaningful step toward a future where excellence in sport is defined not just by medals, but by the values that shape the journey.
