The issue of age fraud has long plagued Indian sports, undermining fair competition and athlete development.
In a significant move, the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports has proposed a revised Draft National Code to tackle this problem, marking the first major revision in 15 years.
This new framework introduces strict verification measures, penalties, digital tracking, and whistle-blower protection to ensure transparency and fairness in age-based sporting categories.
Let’s break down the key features of the new Draft National Code and its impact on Indian sports.
Key Features of the New Code
1. Mandatory Age Verification & Digital Locking
Every athlete will now undergo a compulsory age verification process before being allowed to compete in age-group tournaments. Once verified, an athlete’s age will be digitally locked, preventing future tampering with birth records.
2. Medical Examination for Age Discrepancies
To counter forged documents, the code introduces a scientific approach to age verification. Medical tests, including bone density scans and dental examinations, will be used in cases where discrepancies arise between official records and suspected real age.
3. Uniform Penalties for Violations
Athletes, coaches, and officials involved in age fraud will now face a standardized set of penalties, removing previous inconsistencies in punishment. This will ensure strong deterrence and reduce manipulation in tournaments.
4. Whistle-Blower Mechanism
A safe and confidential platform will be set up for individuals to report suspected cases of age fraud without fear of retaliation. This will empower athletes, coaches, and officials to uphold integrity in sports.
5. Amnesty Program for Self-Disclosure
Recognizing that some athletes may have been pressured into age fraud earlier in their careers, the code introduces an amnesty program. Those who come forward voluntarily and correct their records will be granted a one-time exemption from punishment, encouraging honesty in the system.
6. Two-Tier Appellate Mechanism
To ensure fairness, the code includes a two-tier appeal system for athletes who believe they were wrongly accused of age fraud. This will allow for thorough case reviews before any final decision is made.
7. Empowerment of Integrity & Compliance Officers
Dedicated Integrity and Compliance Officers will be appointed across sports federations to oversee age verification, investigate fraud cases, and enforce penalties. This professional oversight will strengthen the system.
8. Dedicated National Database
A centralized digital database will be created to store and track athlete age records. This will help in monitoring inconsistencies, preventing duplicate entries, and ensuring long-term integrity in age-based sports.
9. QR-Enabled ID Cards
All athletes will be issued QR-coded ID cards, which will store their verified age details. This will make verification instant, transparent, and tamper-proof, reducing document forgery.
10. Public Accountability & Transparency
The new framework emphasizes public disclosure and transparency. Federations will be required to publish reports on age fraud cases, penalties, and corrective actions to ensure accountability.
Why This Code Matters for Indian Sports
Restoring Fair Play
Age fraud distorts competition, giving older athletes an unfair advantage in youth categories. The new system ensures that genuine young athletes get a fair chance to develop their skills and succeed.
Enhancing India’s Global Reputation
Several Indian athletes have faced age fraud allegations internationally, damaging the country’s sporting credibility. A robust national system will help restore trust in Indian sports at the global level.
Building Long-Term Athlete Development
By eliminating fraudulent participation, India can identify and nurture real young talent, ensuring sustainable growth in various sports disciplines.
Conclusion
The new Draft National Code to Combat Age Fraud is a landmark reform that will bring integrity, fairness, and transparency to Indian sports. By implementing strict verification, penalties, and digital tracking, the Sports Ministry aims to eradicate this long-standing issue and create a level playing field for all athletes.
With the introduction of technology-driven solutions, an independent review system, and stronger accountability measures, this new code is a major step forward in safeguarding Indian sports from age fraud.
Now, the success of this initiative will depend on its effective implementation by federations, coaches, and sports administrators.
