India enforces National Anti-Doping Act, strengthens clean sport framework

The Government of India has brought the National Anti-Doping Act, 2022 and the National Anti-Doping (Amendment) Act, 2025 into force, strengthening the country's legal framework to combat doping and promote clean sport.

The notification, issued by the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports on Friday, provides statutory backing for India's anti-doping programme and aligns the country's regulatory framework with the World Anti-Doping Code and its commitments under the UNESCO International Convention against Doping in Sport.

According to the ministry, the legislation is aimed at protecting athletes' rights, preserving the integrity of sporting competition and ensuring India's anti-doping system meets internationally accepted standards.

Stronger governance and athlete protection

The Acts establish a comprehensive legal framework covering anti-doping testing, results management, education, intelligence gathering and investigations across all sports. They also seek to improve transparency, accountability and due process while strengthening safeguards for athletes.

The National Anti-Doping (Amendment) Act, 2025 introduces changes to the governance structure by enhancing institutional independence and refining dispute resolution mechanisms. The government said the amendments bring India's anti-doping administration closer to evolving global best practices while improving its fairness, efficiency and credibility.

With the legislation now in force, the Centre said it aims to create a more transparent and athlete-centric anti-doping ecosystem that reinforces the principles of fair play and integrity.

The government added that the strengthened legal framework reflects India's commitment to ensuring a level playing field for athletes competing at both national and international events while enhancing the credibility of the country's anti-doping programme.