Athletes aiming for international glory will now need a green signal from the Athletics Federation of India (AFI) before packing their bags. In a bid to tighten oversight and ensure fair play, the AFI has introduced a rule requiring prior approval for all overseas training and competition plans. This policy shift, though administrative in tone, is bound to impact the dynamics of Indian athletics in a big way—both positively and controversially.
One Nation, One Approval
Effective immediately, athletes must submit a detailed proposal at least a month in advance to gain AFI’s clearance for any overseas training or competition. Those who fail to do so face disciplinary action, including disqualification from national selection and removal of performance records from official books. AFI President Bahadur Singh Sagoo emphasized that the decision arose from a growing trend of athletes training abroad on private sponsorships without informing the governing body. AFI believes this practice weakens its doping control strategy and hampers national team planning.
Why Now?
The move follows rising concerns over athletes bypassing official channels. Instances of athletes skipping domestic competitions in favor of unmonitored foreign training camps have alarmed the federation. "Athletes going for international exposure tours without permission severely impact AFI's strategy to field national teams for major competitions," said Sagoo.
The case of 400m sprinter Aishwarya Mishra underlines the issue. Despite a month-long training stint in Loughborough, UK, she missed the National Federation Cup—a key selection meet. Her request for exemption was denied, and she was ultimately excluded from the Asian Championships and World Relays squad.
The Doping Dilemma
AFI’s concern isn’t limited to scheduling or athlete availability. Doping oversight is a critical factor. A recent incident in Kenya, where an Indian national was caught with illegal performance-enhancing substances, has heightened AFI's vigilance. Kenya, a renowned high-altitude training hub, is now under unofficial scrutiny. The AFI has explicitly warned athletes not to train there without prior knowledge and clearance.
In a sport where milliseconds count, unmonitored foreign training opens both opportunities and risks. The federation fears that athletes using overseas bases might bypass domestic dope-testing protocols or, worse, fall prey to unsafe or unethical practices.
The Bigger Picture: Control or Constraint?
While the AFI’s intent to ensure a cleaner and more accountable sports culture is commendable, critics argue it risks becoming bureaucratic overreach. Overseas training offers athletes access to superior facilities, elite coaching, and global exposure. Delayed or denied permissions could hinder their development and morale.
There’s a growing call for the AFI to balance regulation with reform. Greater transparency in the approval process and investment in domestic infrastructure are essential. “Track and test, yes,” remarked one national coach, “but don’t clip wings while trying to catch cheaters.”
Structure or Stranglehold?
For sports enthusiasts and aspiring athletes, the new policy is a mixed blessing. On one hand, it promises a more structured, ethically sound athletic ecosystem. On the other, it could entangle talent in a web of red tape. As India marches toward greater global sporting ambitions, its ability to balance freedom with fairness will shape the next chapter of its athletics journey.
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