“Two members of the board, from among persons of ability, integrity and standing…”: Sports Ministry On Gagan Narang & Kunjarani Devi

Gagan Narang, a bronze medalist in the Olympics, and Kunjarani Devi, a respected weightlifter, are on the committee to appoint the members for the National Sports Board (NSB). The Central Government officially chose five members for the committee to constitute the National Sports Board. Among them are Sports Secretary Hari Ranjan Rao, Cabinet Secretary TV Somanathan, and the Indian Olympic Association’s (IOA) Executive Council member Lt. General (Retd) Harpal Singh. All the 5 members will lead the decision-making together in the formation of NSB.

“The aforementioned committee is tasked to recommend a panel of names for the positions of chairperson and two members of the board, from among persons of ability, integrity and standing, having knowledge or practical experience in the field of public administration, sports governance, sports law and other related fields,” as mentioned by The Sports Ministry.

Having received the Khel Ratna Award, which is India’s highest honour in sports, Gangan Narang and Kunjarani Devi bring their years of experience, narrative, and expertise in sports. This also provides the on-field reports on the conditions of the sports infrastructure and substance to the athletes' circumstances.

Reports suggests that another reason for the appointment of the National Sports Board Committee could be that top government officials and bureaucrats used the funds on the residential complexes and sports infrastructure that were actually meant for the development of the public domain and domestic athletes. In an investigation done under RTI and as mentioned in the official documents, it was found that bureaucrats, including CSIO and CCSCSB, spent nearly Rs. 6.2 crores from NSDF between 2021 and 2025.

Sportscape believes that it is a revolutionary decision for the National Sports Board. Gagan Narang and Kunjarani Devi are a great addition to the National Sports Board appointment and bring years of experience to the table. This decision may reform the picture of sports infrastructure in India.