Doping menace, Pg8

Key Highlights:

• India ranked first globally in dope positive cases for the third consecutive year, according to WADA's 2024 figures, with 260 adverse analytical findings (AAFs) out of 7,113 tests (3.6%).
• India is set to host the 2029 World Police and Fire Games and the 2030 Centenary Commonwealth Games in Ahmedabad.
• NADA claims the higher positivity rate is due to increased testing, with 7,068 tests conducted up to December 16 this year, resulting in 110 positive cases (1.5%).
• The Sports Ministry acknowledges that government jobs through sports quota and lucrative cash awards may be prompting athletes to use banned substances.

Detailed Insights:

• India's high doping rates could negatively impact its aspirations to bid for the 2036 Olympic Games.
• NADA has implemented measures like awareness drives and the 'Know Your Medicine' app to combat doping.
• Instances of athletes evading testing highlight systemic issues within the sports ecosystem, including the involvement of support staff.
• The National Anti-Doping (Amendment) Bill, 2025, aims to strengthen India's anti-doping efforts.
• Pressure from the International Olympic Committee necessitates making NADA an independent entity with increased funding.

Key Concepts Involved:

• Doping: The use of prohibited substances or methods to enhance athletic performance.
• WADA (World Anti-Doping Agency): The global organization responsible for coordinating and monitoring the fight against doping in sports.
• NADA (National Anti-Doping Agency): The Indian organization responsible for promoting, coordinating, and monitoring the doping control program in sports in India.