In a significant move to promote clean sports, the Haryana Olympic Association (HOA) has decided that gold, silver, and bronze medal winners will no longer receive their official merit certificates immediately after competitions. The certificates will now be issued only after the athletes successfully clear mandatory dope tests.
A "Soft But Firm" Approach Against Doping
The new policy was announced by HOA president Jasvinder Meenu Beniwal during the inauguration of a modern sports stadium in Dohka Hariya village, Charkhi Dadri district, on Thursday. Beniwal described the strategy as a "soft but firm" approach. The aim is to implement it step by step so that young athletes are not shocked but gradually develop a fear of doping and consciously stay away from banned substances.
Under the new rule, athletes must first submit blood test reports from recognized laboratories. While the National Anti-Doping Agency (NADA) remains the primary testing authority, the HOA will also accept reports from reputed private laboratories or government hospital partners to streamline the process for participants.
Global Data Triggers Urgent Action
The urgency behind Haryana's decision stems from alarming global data. Recent statistics from the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) reveal that India has topped the world in doping violations for the third consecutive year. In 2024 alone, India recorded 260 doping cases with a positivity rate of 3.6%, the highest among countries conducting more than 5,000 tests.
This trend has raised serious international concerns, particularly as India prepares a bid to host the 2036 Olympic Games. The International Olympic Committee (IOC) closely monitors such developments, and a strong anti-doping stance is crucial for the nation's sporting reputation and ambitious hosting goals.
Coaches Welcome the Reform
The decision has been welcomed by coaches on the ground. A senior coach noted that many young athletes do not fully understand the supplements they consume. This new rule will compel them to ask critical questions before ingesting any substance, fostering a culture of caution and responsibility from an early stage.
Alongside the dope-test mandate, the HOA announced several other reforms. These include plans to develop international-level sports facilities in Charkhi Dadri and host national-level competitions there, signaling a broader push to elevate sports infrastructure and standards in the state.
The combined efforts of stricter anti-doping measures and improved facilities represent Haryana's dual strategy to nurture athletic talent while rigorously upholding the principles of honesty and integrity in sports.
