The Government of India has notified the commencement of the National Anti-Doping Act, 2022 and the National Anti-Doping (Amendment) Act, 2025, marking a significant milestone in strengthening India's legal and institutional framework for clean sport. The legislation provides a comprehensive statutory foundation to prevent doping in sport, safeguard the rights of athletes, and uphold the integrity of sporting competition in accordance with internationally accepted anti-doping standards.

The Acts align India's anti-doping framework with the World Anti-Doping Code and fulfil India's obligations under the UNESCO International Convention against Doping in Sport. The legislation strengthens institutional independence, enhances procedural safeguards, streamlines dispute resolution mechanisms, and reinforces the credibility and effectiveness of India's anti-doping programme.

The Acts provide statutory backing for anti-doping measures across all sports by establishing a robust legal framework governing testing, results management, education, intelligence and investigations. They also promote greater transparency, accountability, and due process while ensuring the protection of athletes' rights.

The National Anti-Doping (Amendment) Act, 2025 further refines the governance structure by strengthening institutional autonomy and bringing India's anti-doping framework in closer conformity with evolving international best practices. The amendments are aimed at enhancing the effectiveness, fairness and credibility of anti-doping administration in the country.

The coming into force of these Acts reflects the Government's unwavering commitment to fostering a transparent, fair and athlete-centric anti-doping ecosystem. The strengthened legal framework will further reinforce India's resolve to promote the values of integrity, fair play and excellence in sport, while ensuring that Indian athletes compete on a level playing field nationally and internationally

****

Ayushman Kumar