Nepal Government Announces Reforms to End Political Appointments in Sports Administration

Kathmandu. The government has announced the abolition of political appointments in sports administration. This declaration was made through a national commitment paper released by the government on Tuesday. The government has prioritized the sports sector as a foundation for the country's overall development and prosperity.

The commitment paper envisions developing sports as the backbone of national unity, human development, national pride, and economic prosperity.

It has announced the end of political appointments in sports administration, replacing them with professional leadership and transparent budget management. The management of sports budgets will be made more transparent, ensuring that resources are not misused and are instead invested in actual athletes and sports infrastructure.

The government views sports not just as a means of entertainment, but as a basis for national identity, health, and economic progress. The government's commitment emphasizes placing sports as a state priority and taking concrete steps for its development.

The commitment paper mentions completing the construction of unfinished stadiums on time and building state-of-the-art, fully accessible sports infrastructure in all seven provinces. This will help expand sports activities within the country and provide necessary facilities to athletes.

There is also a goal to upgrade the Tribhuvan University International Cricket Ground to international standards and establish Nepal as a sports hub in South Asia.

To strengthen the grassroots level of athlete production, talent identification programs will be conducted from the school level. It has been stated that school sports will be made an integral part of the curriculum. The government expects this to help in the capacity development of athletes from a young age.

Considering Nepal's geographical diversity, the government has committed to promoting indigenous potentials like adventure sports and ultra-marathons as national pride. By encouraging private investment, Nepal will be developed as a destination for adventure sports. The government believes this will also support sports tourism.

Sports tourism will be promoted by organizing bilateral, regional, and international sports events. Using sports as 'soft power,' Nepal will be established as a venue for regional and international events. Through cricket diplomacy, Nepal's international image will be improved and diplomatic relations will be expanded.

Professionalism and Respect for Athletes

Sports will be developed as a profession. A commitment has been made to produce excellent athletes by conducting periodic sports competitions at the school, provincial, and national levels. Giving high priority to athletes and their training, sports training will be made scientific, technical, and result-oriented.

In addition to promoting women's and inclusive sports, arrangements for regular leagues, fair remuneration, and prize money will be made to end the situation where athletes are forced to leave the sport.