Launch of NDTL Research Policy Marks a New Era in India's Anti-Doping Efforts
Sports Minister Unveils NDTL Research Initiative
On Tuesday, Union Minister for Youth Affairs and Sports, Mansukh Mandaviya, introduced the Extramural Research Grant Policy of the National Dope Testing Laboratory (NDTL) during the 10th World Association of Anti-Doping Scientists (WAADS) Quality Assurance Managers’ Meeting 2026 held in New Delhi. This two-day event, which commenced on November 2, was organized by NDTL and gathered international participants from both the sports and scientific sectors. Mandaviya, as the chief guest, also launched the NDTL Newsletter at this gathering.
India's Firm Stance Against Doping
The Union Sports Minister emphasized India's unwavering commitment to a zero-tolerance policy regarding doping. He stated, "Friends, India has zero tolerance for doping. Our duty is to ensure that every victory is achieved through talent, discipline, and hard work. Under the guidance of our Hon’ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, sports have been acknowledged as a crucial element of nation-building," remarked Dr. Mandaviya. "India’s sporting journey has entered a transformative phase."
Commitment to Anti-Doping Research and Future Goals
Dr. Mandaviya highlighted India's dedication to advancing anti-doping research and education, stating, "Today we launched the significant Extramural Research Grant Policy, aimed at fostering research and development in advanced detection and prevention methods. This initiative will fortify the scientific basis of our anti-doping strategies." With India preparing to host the Commonwealth Games in 2030 and aspiring to host the 2036 Olympics, education and awareness regarding doping are essential in the fight against it.
He further explained, "Our strategy integrates enhanced testing infrastructure with education, awareness, and prevention. As we gear up for the Commonwealth Games in 2030 and aim for the 2036 Olympics, anti-doping testing, athlete education, and international collaboration are paramount. Athletes, coaches, and medical professionals must grasp the implications of banned substances, the dangers linked to supplements, and their responsibilities under anti-doping regulations," added Mandaviya.
Enhancing India's Sports Framework
The Union Sports Minister noted that India has made significant strides toward becoming a prominent sporting nation, as evidenced by the recent achievements of its athletes at the 2026 Asian Games. "Through initiatives like Khelo India, Fit India, and the Target Olympic Podium Scheme, we have bolstered the sporting ecosystem and created more opportunities for our youth to thrive," stated Mandaviya. "At the recently concluded Asian Games 2026, our athletes showcased one of their best performances, finishing fourth in the overall medal standings. Our para-athletes also made history at the Asian Para Games 2026, achieving a record 114 medals, the highest ever for India at these games," he remarked.
The meeting also saw participation from Secretary (Sports) Hari Ranjan Rao, along with international delegates including Osquel Barroso, Senior Associate Director (Laboratory Science and Medicine) at WADA, Dorota Kwiatkowska, President of WAADS, Prof. (Dr) P L. Sahu, Director of NDTL, and other distinguished scientists.