Indian Sports today and A decade ago: A Comparative Study
 
Dr. Sanjeev Mishra*
Assistant Professor, Government Girls Degree College, Jhansi, Uttar Pradesh, India
Email Id - sanjeevdivyansh@gmail.com
Abstract - Our country now has a lot more resources to develop sports talent than it did in previous decades. Over the last decade, Indian sports have experienced substantial growth and transformation across a variety of disciplines. Here's a comparison of the state of Indian sports today versus a decade ago:
Keywords: Sports leagues, tournaments, Sports talent in India
1. INFRASTRUCTURE DEVELOPMENT
Now a days: Sports infrastructure development has increased significantly throughout the country. New stadiums, training facilities, and sports complexes have been constructed, mostly to prepare for large events such as the Commonwealth Games and the Indian Premier League.
A Decade Before: A decade ago, infrastructure was a key worry, with inadequate facilities and ageing stadiums stifling athletic growth. However, initiatives in this direction began in the early 2010s.
2. GOVERNMENT SUPPORT
Now a days: The Indian government has demonstrated a greater commitment to sports promotion through different efforts, including the Khelo India programme, which attempts to foster grassroots sports and uncover talent at an early age. Financial assistance to sportsmen and sports federations has also risen.
A Decade Before: While the government provided some assistance for sports, it was not as organised or significant as it is today. The emphasis on grassroots development was less obvious.
3. PERFORMANCE AT INTERNATIONAL LEVEL
Now a days: Indian athletes have performed remarkably well on the international level in a variety of sports. The number of medals awarded at competitions such as the Olympics, Asian Games, and Commonwealth Games has increased significantly.
A Decade Before: India's performance at international tournaments was low, with little success in winning medals. Athletes' training programmes were inconsistent and unstructured.
4. CORPORATE INVESTMENT
Now a days: Corporate sponsorship and investment in Indian sports have increased significantly. Many firms now actively fund teams, leagues, and individual players in sports such as cricket, football, and badminton.
A Decade Before: Corporate funding in sports was limited, with sponsors focusing mostly on cricket. Other sports struggled to secure major sponsorship arrangements.
5. POPULARITY OF NON-CRICKET SPORTS
Now a days: Non-cricket sports have becoming increasingly popular. Games like as badminton, kabaddi, wrestling, and hockey have grown in popularity and viewership because to successful leagues such as the Indian Badminton League (IBL), Pro Kabaddi League (PKL), and Hockey India League (HIL).
A Decade Before: Cricket outperformed all other sports in terms of popularity and media attention. Non-cricket sports struggled to get the attention and support of both spectators and sponsors.
6. CONCLUSION
Overall, while there are always issues and opportunities for improvement, the standing of Indian sports has improved significantly over the last decade, because to expanded infrastructure, government support, corporate funding, and international success.
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