New Delhi: In a major step towards reforming sports administration in the country, the Government of India has introduced the National Sports Governance (Board & Tribunal) Rules, 2026, aimed at strengthening transparency, ethics and accountability in Indian sports governance.

The new rules provide a structured framework for recognition of sports bodies, ethical conduct and dispute resolution mechanisms within the sports sector. A key feature of the rules is the establishment of a Sports Tribunal to address sports-related disputes in a faster and more organised manner.

According to the government, the Rules are expected to improve governance standards and ensure fair handling of conflicts involving sports federations, athletes and related stakeholders.

The Rules also introduce several digital mechanisms to make the dispute resolution process more accessible and efficient. These include a dedicated online portal for filing disputes, submission of documents, virtual hearings and publication of tribunal orders.

Officials said the move is aimed at creating a streamlined and transparent system that will help modernise sports administration in India while ensuring timely justice in sports-related matters.

The National Sports Governance (Board & Tribunal) Rules, 2026 are being seen as an important development in the evolving framework of Indian sports governance.