Union Minister of Youth Affairs and Sports Mansukh Mandaviya chaired a review meeting of the National Dope Testing Laboratory (NDTL) in New Delhi on Thursday. The meeting assessed the laboratory's functioning, capabilities, and future roadmap, according to a press release from the Union Sports Ministry.
Mandatory Anti-Doping Awareness for Athletes
Mandaviya emphasized preventive measures against doping, stating that athletes participating in the National Games and Khelo India competitions will undergo mandatory anti-doping awareness sessions. He outlined the need to create awareness among athletes at an early stage of their sporting careers to promote clean sport and safeguard them from inadvertent doping violations.
Regional Language Translation of 'Know Your Medicine' App
Highlighting the need for wider public outreach, the Minister announced that the 'Know Your Medicine' mobile application will be translated into regional languages. He said that making anti-doping information available in local languages would help athletes, coaches, and support personnel across the country better understand prohibited substances and ensure informed decision-making.
Enhancing NDTL's Global Footprint
Mandaviya stressed the need to enhance the global footprint of NDTL and stated that efforts should be made to increase testing of samples from international athletes at the laboratory. He noted that NDTL's growing technical capabilities and adherence to global standards position it to contribute more significantly to the international anti-doping ecosystem.
Advanced Testing Methodologies and Reference Materials
The laboratory has supported major sporting events, worked on advanced testing methodologies such as Dried Blood Spot (DBS), and recently undertaken the synthesis of reference materials critical to anti-doping science, further strengthening testing capabilities and promoting fair play in sports.
Meeting Attendees
The meeting was attended by Shreyasi Singh, Shooter and Minister for Industries and Sports, Government of Bihar; Hari Ranjan Rao, Secretary (Sports); senior officers of the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports; representatives of National Sports Federations; eminent scientists; and PL Sahu, Director & CEO (I/c), National Dope Testing Laboratory.
