New Delhi, 06 August (H.S.):Union Youth Affairs and Sports Minister Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya on Thursday responded in the Rajya Sabha to various questions related to vacant coaching positions in the Sports Authority of India (SAI), anti-doping measures, and the current status of Indian football.
Mandaviya informed the House that 554 coaching positions are currently vacant across various SAI centres in the country, including 90 posts of chief coaches.
He said that despite the recruitment process for more than 350 assistant coaches being initiated in January, 464 assistant coach positions are still vacant, which is over 100 more than the previous year.
“Coaches’ qualifications and efficiency are assessed according to the prescribed recruitment and appointment standards,” Mandaviya said.
He also informed that Rs 8.5 crore has been spent over the last five years on training and skill development programmes for coaches to enhance their professional capabilities.
The minister provided this information in a written reply to a question raised by Leader of Opposition in the Rajya Sabha and Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge.
Responding to a question by Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) MP Kesridevsinh Zala, Mandaviya said that the National Anti-Doping Agency (NADA) has developed specialised intelligence and investigation mechanisms to monitor activities related to doping rule violations, trafficking, distribution and use of prohibited substances.
He said that doping tests have been increased at school, university, state and zonal-level competitions.
In 2025, 20 sample collection sessions were conducted, while 55 such sessions have already been organised till July 2026.
Mandaviya added that the number of Sample Collection Personnel (SCP) is also being increased through regular recruitment, training and re-accreditation programmes. In 2025, 11 training programmes were conducted, while four programmes have been held till July 2026.
He further stated that the government is working towards amending the National Anti-Doping Act to introduce provisions for imprisonment and fines against those involved in the trafficking and supply of prohibited substances.
Replying to questions regarding the current state of Indian football, the Sports Minister said that the central government has provided financial assistance of Rs 37.98 crore to the All India Football Federation (AIFF) during the last five years.
He said that out of the Rs 8 crore allocated for the current year, Rs 3.91 crore has already been released.
Mandaviya informed that 527 football players are currently undergoing training at SAI centres across the country. He added that SAI regularly reviews sports performance and development with AIFF and provides necessary suggestions for improvement.
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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar
