India’s Draft National Code Against Age Fraud in Sports Aims for Fair Play

Current Affairs National

Posted by newadmin on 2025-03-17 08:56:11 |

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The Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports in India has unveiled the Draft National Code Against Age Fraud in Sports (NCAAFS) 2025, marking a significant step toward ensuring fair competition and protecting genuine athletes. The draft, open for public comments, updates the regulations after 15 years and introduces a comprehensive approach to combat age fraud.

The primary objective of the NCAAFS is to establish a robust age verification system through a centralised database, with mandatory age documentation from athletes. The database will permanently lock verified ages to prevent manipulation. In case of discrepancies, medical examinations, including the TW3 method, MRI scans, and AI-based bone assessments, will be used to determine the athlete’s age.

Strict penalties are outlined for age fraud, with a two-year ban and forfeiture of titles for the first offence, and a lifetime ban for a second offence. Coaches and officials involved will also face penalties. An amnesty program allows athletes to voluntarily correct their age within six months, with reassignment to the appropriate age group.

The NCAAFS introduces a two-tier appellate system for disputes and mandates the appointment of Integrity Officers by National Sports Federations to ensure compliance. A centralised digital portal will store all verification data, enhancing transparency and accountability in Indian sports governance.

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