Mandaviya calls for global unity to tackle evolving doping threat

Union Sports Minister Mansukh Mandaviya underlined India’s commitment to clean sport and stronger global cooperation while addressing the opening of the Final Conference of the World Anti-Doping Agency’s Global Anti-Doping Intelligence & Investigations Network (GAIIN).

Highlighting the importance of collective action, Mandaviya said “a global anti-doping intelligence and investigations network can significantly enhance cooperation in these crucial areas,” noting that the conference brings together key stakeholders in the worldwide fight against doping.

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He stressed that India’s recent reforms are driven by intent rather than obligation. “Not just for compliance, but with a genuine commitment to the integrity of sports,” he said, pointing to the National Anti-Doping Act, 2022 and the National Anti-Doping Amendment Act, 2025, which align the country’s framework with international standards.

Mandaviya added that the government is working to introduce criminal provisions targeting those involved in administering or trafficking banned substances. He also acknowledged the changing nature of the problem, observing that doping is no longer limited to individual misconduct but has evolved into a structured, multinational enterprise, requiring a coordinated global response.

Witold Bańka, President of WADA, echoed the need for collaboration, stating, “WADA’s Intelligence and Investigations model has evolved to strengthen cooperation between National Anti-Doping Organisations and law enforcement agencies.

“This model is built on partnerships. It brings together the expertise of anti-doping professionals with the capabilities of law enforcement, supported by international partners such as Europol and INTERPOL,” he added.

Speaking on India’s growing stature, Mandaviya said hosting international engagements like WADA workshops has strengthened investigative capacity and the broader anti-doping ecosystem. He added that India is “emerging as a global sporting powerhouse with both direction and momentum under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi.”

He also highlighted the government’s broader push for sports development, citing initiatives such as Khelo India and the Fit India Movement, which aim to integrate sport into the national fabric.

Emphasising values, Mandaviya said that “athlete values must remain at the core of sporting excellence,” adding that “sports has the power to foster discipline, integrity, and character, but rising competitive pressures can sometimes lead to unethical choices.” He called for consistent efforts to promote fairness, honesty and respect at every level.

On prevention, he noted that “prevention remains the most effective strategy,” and added that “providing the right information at the right time empowers athletes to make informed decisions and avoid both intentional and accidental violations.” He stressed that education must be continuous throughout an athlete’s journey.

The National Anti-Doping Agency (NADA) has adopted a multi-layered awareness strategy through workshops, seminars, digital campaigns and event-based outreach, including specialised modules for athletes with disabilities.

Sports secretary Hari Ranjan Rao highlighted institutional strengthening, saying, “The Ministry of Sports has worked towards strengthening the institutional and investigative capacity of the National Anti-Doping Agency, including closer coordination with enforcement agencies and improved information sharing. Partnerships with organisations such as the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India and the Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation are critical in addressing risks arising from contaminated or unregulated substances, which remain a significant global concern.”

Mandaviya also pointed to technological tools like the “Know Your Medicine” app and the development of advanced testing laboratories to safeguard athletes from contaminated supplements. He noted that anti-doping tests in India have increased from around 4,000 in 2019 to nearly 8,000 in the past year, while adverse findings have dropped from 5.6% to under 2%.

Reaffirming India’s stance, Mandaviya said that “no single entity can address the challenge of doping in isolation,” adding that “India remains committed not only to sporting excellence but to upholding the highest standards of integrity,” and described the conference as a collective step towards ensuring sport remains fair and true to its values.