NEW DELHI: The Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FICCI), in its assessment of the allocations made for sports by Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman while presenting her first Union Budget in Parliament on Friday, sees two principal outcomes IF there is proper utilisation of the funds rendered.
First is the government’s proposal to set up a National Sports Education Board under the Khelo India programme. This, if actioned, will result in the “development and early implementation of a comprehensive sports education program”, the FICCI Sports Committee has surmised.
For the record, Khelo India is an initiative of the government of India to strengthen the sports ecosystem by encouraging mass participation and promotion of excellence.
To recap what Sitharaman said on the subject of sport in Parliament: “To popularise sports at all levels, National Sports Education Board for development of sportspersons to be set up under Khelo India.”
Second are proposals related to “Change in Customs Duty Rates”. Since foam/ EVA foam and pine wood are being included in the list of items allowed duty free import (upto 3% of FOB value of sports goods exported in the preceding financial year), this will lower input costs and make goods reasonable in domestic markets and exports competitive.
FICCI’s Overall Assessment of Budget for Sector’s Growth and Development
There is around 10% increase in the Sports & Youth Affairs budget in the Union Budget 2019-20 compared to revised estimates of 2018-19, though almost same as the budgeted estimate.
So the ministry will have to ensure timely and full utilization of the budget. The allocation is the same as announced in the interim budget earlier this year. A 10% increase in schemes like Encouragement and Awards to Sportspersons is a welcome announcement and will provide sustainability and security to the athletes.
Setting up of the board will hopefully make Khelo India more effective and a comprehensive sports program for schools.
Issues which did not find mention in budget:
1. Development of infrastructure and training for elite athletes as well as grassroots
2. Tax benefits for investing in sports Infra
3. Single window clearance for sporting events
4. More funds for creating Youth developments program
5. Rationalistaion of GST rates in sporting goods and services
Related Report
Budget 2019: Ntl sports edu board under Khelo India
