Players of Indian origin living abroad will be encouraged to play as a country, according to the newly unresolved national sports policy, also referred to as Khelo Bharat Niti, which signals a move away from the earlier governmental attitude that only Indian passport holders can represent.
The ban on card holders abroad in India (OCI) in the representation of the country in 2008 influenced Indian sport growth, such as football and tennis.
However, the 20 -page document Khelo Bharat Niti said that India would look for peace and international cooperation through sport so that “sport could serve as a powerful tool for international diplomacy and cooperation”.
“Wherever it is possible, promising and prominent athletes in Indian origin living abroad to return and play for India at international level,” he says.
“Together, this effort can turn sport into a dynamic instrument of cultural diplomacy and building nations and strengthen the global Indian identity.”
At present, they are allowed to compete only with Indian passport holders.
However, the ministry canceled the cancellation of this prohibition to ensure that “a sports ecosystem in India can be strengthened”.
According to the new policy, India will promote international sports exchange programs “allowing sharing of knowledge, building capacities and efforts to develop cooperation”.
“Sport can serve as a powerful bridge between Indian diaspora and India and supports permanent emotional, cultural and social contexts. Specialized sports events and leagues can be organized specifically for the Indian diaspora and between Indian diaspora.”
Football not on ocis
The All India (AIFF) Football Federation was particularly interested in OCIS permission, although there are no major names that could be considered for India, even if the ban is canceled.
In tennis, Prakash Amritraj – the son of the legendary Vijay Amritraj – was one of several important holders of American passports affected by the OCI card holders. Between 2003 and 2008, he represented India in 10 Davis Cup ties before the restrictions came into force and forbade players like him to continue.
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Published:
Akshay Ramesh
Published on:
2 July 2025
