India's Sports Ministry Proposes Tougher Anti-Doping Laws

A draft outlining these amendments has been made available on the ministry's website for public consultation. Stakeholders are encouraged to provide their feedback by June 18, 2026.

The focus of these proposed changes is on targeting traffickers, illegal suppliers, organized crime groups, and support networks linked to doping activities. Importantly, athletes who are not implicated in these offenses will not face imprisonment for violations of anti-doping regulations.

“I previously addressed this issue during the visit of WADA chief Witold Banka. We are committed to dismantling these syndicates, particularly those supplying substances to minors,” stated Sports Minister Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya during a press briefing on Thursday.

During his recent visit to New Delhi for the Global Anti-Doping Intelligence and Investigations Network (GAIIN) meeting, Banka labeled India as a major source of illegal performance-enhancing drugs (PEDs) and steroids.

“Operation Upstream is a worldwide initiative involving multiple law enforcement agencies. India is a significant producer of illegal performance-enhancing drugs and steroids, presenting a substantial challenge for us,” Banka remarked in April.

The ministry emphasized that these new regulations align with India’s obligations under the UNESCO Convention against doping in sport and are in line with the strategies endorsed by the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA).

Additionally, there will be protections in place for athletes holding valid Therapeutic Use Exemptions (TUEs) and for medical professionals who may need to use prohibited substances or methods in emergency situations.