A rising graph: On the doping culture in Indian sports

The article highlights India's persistent doping problem, evidenced by numerous positive tests before major events like the Commonwealth and Asian Games. It points to lucrative cash incentives as a key driver for athletes and coaches to resort to performance-enhancing drugs. The issue has drawn international attention from WADA and AIU, leading to India's downgrade due to high doping risk. The article criticizes National Sports Federations for laxity and emphasizes the need for NADA (National Anti-Doping Agency) to increase testing, gain independence from government control, and receive more funding. It also calls for the proper implementation of the National Anti-Doping (Amendment) Act, 2025, to empower NADA and address the supply chain of banned substances, as India aims to host future international sporting events.