India is the second-most populous country in the globe, with over 1.36 billion population, more than a sixth of the world’s population. By 2025 India will be the world’s most populous country, surpassing China, with its population reaching 1.6 billion by 2050. And India has more than 55% of its population below 25 and more than 65% below 35. (1) At the same time, children represent 39% of the country’s total population.

Sports rapidly growing Industry

The sports industry in India is experiencing a rapid shift, with multiple leagues and events being hosted throughout the country. This number is projected to grow by 35% over the next ten years, as we gratefully acknowledge the rise of various sporting fields. The sports sector is one of the fastest-growing industries not only in India but across the world. The sports industry is worth about $700 billion worldwide, and in India alone it is estimated to be worth $700 million. We are grateful for the emergence of multiple leagues in several diverse sports fields, which projects to grow over the next decade. India has hosted and co-hosted numerous international sporting events over the years and time – a testament to its rising stature as a global player on the field.

The attitude of Indians towards sports has changed drastically over the past decade. India has a massive population and is fast developing as a sports nation. Initially, sports was a loss-making affair or waste of time, in that cricket was ultimately the best of all worst for many. Cricket was spreading and gaining pace in Indian hearts. It got recognition at the state level, national level, and international levels, leaving behind a series of underdeveloped & traditional sports. In recent years, some significant initiatives taken to change the face of Indian sports, such as; the Indian Premier League (cricket), Indian Super League (Football), Pro-Kabbadi League, Indian Badminton League, Hockey League, Premier Tennis League, Indian Volley League, etc. The success of franchise-based leagues is clear proof that India has an unquenchable thirst for sports.

The success of these league initiatives has resulted in showing Indian society a world of sports beyond cricket and a bright future for the talented sportsperson & business of sports in India. These leagues have offered immense exposure. And there is an increase in opportunity for the gifted youths of India at a grassroots level to showcase themselves on a global platform.

With a high-growth economy and a growing middle class with disposable income-leisure time, together with rapid growth in TV-owning households and a strong passion for sports, there is high growth potential. Employment and the massive market opportunities which will open up within this Industry will be enormous in the years to come.

India is home to a diverse population, playing several different sports across the country. India is known for cricket, but that’s not the only popular sport; Football is a popular sport. Tennis enjoys a considerable following in India, especially in urban areas. And badminton is played widely, and it is one of the most popular sports in India. 

India has won medals in badminton and many other sports and disciplines. Several games originated in India, including Chess, snooker, and other regional competitions. Also, different forms of martial arts have gained a lot of prominence in India, and Boxing is also taking place. These kinds of activities and sports will make the children/youth get recognition, sports scholarships, and even a bright future in sports.

Sports in India is National Pride

Sports is a multi-billion dollar industry worldwide, propelled by enormous consumer demand. Sports are inspiring, engaging, immersive, emotion-evoking, and a rapidly growing sector worldwide to generate employment and revenue. Sports bring a sense of national pride that is incomparable to any other format of entertainment.

Sports have played a significant role in developing personality traits and qualities like discipline, tolerance, and leadership among the youth. With adequate planning, support and focus, we can channel the Indian youth through sporting activities. The realization of their true potential will build future character and a conduit of national integration. More importantly, our top sportsmen come from diverse parts of the country, many with limited sports infrastructure, thus indicating huge unexplored potential. 

Traditions record that the Holy Prophet of Islam (PBUH) led a very active life, and had encouraged parents to teach their children physical exercise including swimming, archery, horse-riding & self-defence (Martial Arts)’. This direct call to practice sports shows the importance of training the human being for a healthy and sound body. The exercise would avoid unemployment, fight boredom, and laziness, and increase physical/mental abilities, courage, physical/mental health, and a vibrant society. 

Picking up a sport as a profession or working out, staying active is the main criterion. It is also known to counter the symptoms of mild depression and anxiety. Kids are not the only ones who will benefit from participation in sports. Moms, dads, and siblings attend games and cheer each other, providing a bonding opportunity for the whole family. Children’s involvement in sports can put a parent’s mind at ease. It’s satisfying for parents to see their children’s fit and healthy instead of just playing electronic games or watching television.

It is imperative and crucial in today’s society to combat various evils and bad distractions that the youth is facing today. Due to the adverse effects of mainstream society, idleness, obesity, and lousy circle can lead to participation in more “unhealthy” forms of leisure such as drugs, gang participation, or, in the worst-case criminal activity. 

Benefits of Sports

Many benefits derive from the investment in sport, leisure, and recreation opportunities, which includes:

• Building a strong community spirit;
• Providing opportunities for young people to develop lifelong skills;
• Increasing the motivation and self-esteem of young people;
• Reducing crime levels;
• Providing solid tools in the fight against drugs;
• Improving the health and lifestyle of people in the local community;
• Increasing the economic profile of the area.

Choosing the right sport is one of the most critical steps towards success in sports. Sports like cricket and Football are followed by many Indians and thus have a higher profit value. Other than that, sports like swimming, badminton, tennis, Martial arts, Boxing, etc., are also popular and have their important.

But in the past, it was just a loss-making affair in India. Now, sports is going to be the next big industry in India. And India is fast turning into the World’s Sports Capital. In developed countries, sports contribute around 2 to 4 per cent of total employment. It includes various career profiles such as athletes, coaches, trainers, event managers, public relations officers, Coordinators of sports organizations, Marketing Consultants & Facility Managers, Professional Sports promoters, Sports equipment and product sales, Sport Event Planner, and Manager and Sports Sponsorship Specialist.

The best way forward towards a sports career is to rightfully pick an activity of interest and begin pursuing excellence in that direction only. There are several career options in sports, and playing professionally in one of them – albeit the most glamorous one is the key.

Reference:

1. Wikipedia
2. KPMG-confederation of Indian Industry Sept 2016 ©2017 Ernst & Young LLP. Published in India.
3. Sport in India – Wikipedia
4. http://www.smri.in/sportsbusiness/The Sports Industry in India
5. Ibef.org