New Delhi: Former Indian football team captain Bhaichung Bhutia has urged the government to transform India’s education system to give sports a stronger presence. He shared his views during the Viksit Bharat Young Leaders Dialogue and National Youth Festival, highlighting the need for a more sports-centric approach to nurturing future champions.
Bhutia expressed concern about the current focus on academics, which he believes hinders the potential to develop world-class athletes. Speaking to PTI Videos, he said, “The education system must align with sports policies in a big way to bring real change.”
A sports-friendly curriculum is key
#WATCH | Delhi | On Viksit Bharat Young Leaders Dialogue 2025, former Indian footballer, Bhaichung Bhutia says, “The program brought together youth who shared ideas and plans to advance sports in India… We had panel discussions with young sports enthusiasts to envision India as… pic.twitter.com/HsG1Y4SuXX
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Bhaichung Bhutia called for collaboration between the ministries of education and youth affairs and sports to revamp the curriculum. He suggested that sports should be treated as a major subject in schools, just like traditional academics. “Every child is pushed to become a doctor or an engineer, but we need a system that supports those with sporting talent,” Bhutia added.
He emphasised the need for both ministers to work together to design policies that integrate sports into the education framework. Bhutia believes such changes are crucial to producing world champions from India.
The event, held at Bharat Mandapam, brought together over 3,000 young leaders for discussions on various themes, including sports. Bhutia praised the government’s initiative, stating, “It’s great to see such efforts under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi ji. These dialogues help focus on how sports can progress in the country.”
The festival was inaugurated by Sports Minister Mansukh Mandaviya and featured creative competitions and discussions to inspire the youth. Bhutia expressed hope that events like these would encourage more attention to sports and education reform.
India’s education policies favour academics over sports, limiting athletic growth, says Bhaichung Bhutia. He called for reforms to integrate sports as a major subject in schools. Football Sports News: Latest Cricket News, Cricket Live Score, Sports Breaking News from Sports Today
