The Ministry of Civil Aviation has recently announced the launch of the National Air Sport Policy 2022 (NASP 2022). This policy has been formulated based on the inputs received from policy makers, air sports practitioners, and the general public. The enactment of this policy will ensure the establishment of high-quality infrastructure, equipment, instructors, and services.
Understanding NASP 2022
NASP 2022 envisions transforming India into one of the leading sports nations by 2030. The policy aims to provide a safe, affordable, accessible, enjoyable, and sustainable air sports ecosystem within the country.
Purpose and Objectives of NASP 2022
The leading objectives of NASP 2022 include promoting an air sports culture within the country along with the adoption of international best practices in safety. These practices pertain to air sports infrastructure, equipment, operations, maintenance, and training. It also aims to develop a straightforward, stakeholder-friendly, and effective governance structure while enhancing the participation and success of Indian sportspersons in global air sports events. Additionally, the policy promotes the design, development, and manufacturing of air sports equipment in line with Atmanirbhar Bharat Abhiyan.
Governing Bodies of NASP 2022
NASP 2022 outlines a four-tier governance structure for air sports in India. The Air Sports Federation of India (ASFI) will operate as the apex governing body. National associations for individual air sports, regional or state, and district-level air sports associations will also play a significant role.
Sports Covered under NASP 2022
Various air sports come under the purview of NASP 2022. These include aerobatics, aero modelling and model rocketry, amateur-built and experimental aircraft, ballooning, drones, gliding and powered gliding, hang gliding and powered hang gliding, parachuting, paragliding and para motoring, powered aircraft, and rotorcraft.
Significance of NASP 2022
India has significant potential to be a global leader in the sector of air sports. With its vast geographical expanse, diverse topography, favourable weather conditions, large youth population, and growing interest in adventure sports and aviation, India is well-positioned to excel in this domain. The indirect benefits of air sports activities include increased travel, tourism, infrastructure development, and local employment, particularly in hilly areas. The creation of air sports hubs across the country is expected to attract air sports professionals and tourists worldwide.
Government Initiatives for Sports Development
The Indian government has initiated several programs for sports development, including the Khelo India Scheme, National Sports Development Fund, the National Sports Talent Contest (NSTC) Scheme, Sports Authority of India Training Centres Scheme (STC), Special Area Games (SAG) Scheme, Target Olympic Podium Scheme (TOPS), and Khelo India Youth Games.
The Way Forward
To harness the energetic Indian youth’s potential, which constitutes 70% of the country’s population, initiatives such as NASP 2022 play a critical role. The youth demographic in India is more extensive than Europe’s total population and three times that of the USA, indicating the vast potential for growth in sectors such as air sports.
