Sports, Health, and Nation-Building: Charting India’s Path to Development by 2047

https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.20241903

Abstract

This research paper explores the multidimensional role of sports and physical education in shaping India’s trajectory toward becoming a developed nation by 2047. Integrating perspectives from economics, sociology, public health, and policy studies, it argues that sports and physical education (PE) serve as foundational pillars for human-capital formation, social integration, and national identity. The paper investigates the symbiotic relationship between sports participation, population health, productivity, and civic consciousness, showing how structured physical education and organized sports programmes can advance India’s vision of holistic development. Drawing from global best practices and India’s policy landscape—particularly the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 and Khelo India scheme—it develops an integrated framework linking grassroots participation, elite performance, and policy innovation. It concludes with strategic recommendations for transforming India into a “Fit, Healthy, and Developed Bharat” by 2047.

Keywords: Sports policy, physical education, nation-building, human capital, public health, NEP 2020, Khelo India, India 2047.