In a significant step towards realising the vision of Viksit Bharat @2047 and positioning India as a leading global sporting nation, the Task Force constituted by the Department of Sports, Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports, has submitted its comprehensive report on developing a unified framework for the coaching ecosystem in the country.
The Task Force, chaired by renowned badminton coach and national head coach Shri Pullela Gopichand, examined critical areas such as the quality and availability of coaches, academic reforms in coach education, and systemic capacity-building measures in line with international best practices.
The report presents a detailed national framework for the development, accreditation, and professionalisation of sports coaches, with actionable recommendations designed to create a robust, inclusive, and future-ready coaching ecosystem across all sports and regions.
A key proposal is the establishment of a National Coach Accreditation Board (NCAB) as the apex body responsible for setting national standards, approving coaching pathways, accrediting institutions, and ensuring consistency, transparency, and quality in coach education nationwide.
The Task Force has recommended a Tiered National Coaching Pathway structured into four levels — Grassroots, Intermediate, Elite, and National Team Coach — with Level 0 serving as a universal entry stage. This pathway allows multiple entry points for former athletes, physical education teachers, and sports science graduates, while emphasising merit-based progression tied to measurable outcomes and continuous professional development.
Emphasising practical readiness, the panel advocates a Practice-First Coach Education Model built on a Practice–Theory–Practice philosophy. Of the proposed 1,800 hours of training, approximately 78 percent will be dedicated to hands-on field experience, mentored internships, and supervised coaching practice, with the balance covering sports science, psychology, ethics, safety, and performance analytics.
Inspired by the successful Target Olympic Podium Scheme (TOPS) for athletes, the report recommends a dedicated “TOPS for Coaches” initiative to provide high-potential coaches with financial support, advanced training, international exposure, technology adoption, and specialised services to drive innovation in coaching practices.
To further strengthen science-backed coaching, the framework proposes a 24/7 National Sports Science Helpline staffed by experts in sports science, physiotherapy, nutrition, psychology, and performance analysis. Accessible via toll-free number, mobile app, and online portal, the helpline will offer real-time guidance on injury prevention, training load management, rehabilitation, and performance optimisation.
The full report is now available on the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports website at:
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