National Code Against Age Fraud in Sports 2025

March 15, 2025

The Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports in India has released the Draft National Code Against Age Fraud in Sports (NCAAFS) 2025. This initiative aims to combat age fraud in sports, ensuring fair competition and protecting genuine athletes. The draft is open for public comments and suggestions, marking update after 15 years. The NCAAFS addresses age verification, penalties, and governance in sports.

Objectives of NCAAFS 2025

The NCAAFS seeks to implement a robust verification system through a centralised database. The code introduces strict penalties for those involved in falsifying age records. It also enhances transparency and accountability in sports governance, aligning with international best practices.

Mandatory Age Verification

All athletes must submit three mandatory documents during registration. Their age will be recorded in a secure digital database. This database will permanently lock the verified age to prevent future manipulation.

Medical Examination Protocols

In cases of age discrepancies, medical examinations will be conducted using the TW3 method, MRI scans, and general physical and dental assessments. AI-based bone assessments will be piloted for age determination. Disputes can be appealed to a designated appellate medical panel.

Penalties for Age Fraud

The NCAAFS enforces strict penalties for age fraud violations. A first offence results in a two-year ban and forfeiture of titles. A second offence leads to a lifetime ban and legal action. Coaches and officials found guilty will also face penalties.

Whistle-blower Mechanism

A secure platform will allow stakeholders to report age fraud anonymously. A reward system will encourage whistle-blowers to come forward with genuine reports.

Amnesty Program for Self-Disclosure

An amnesty window of six months will allow athletes to voluntarily declare their correct age without penalties. Participants will undergo a performance review and be reassigned to the appropriate age group.

Two-Tier Appellate Mechanism

A two-tier appellate mechanism will manage disputes related to age determination. Athletes can first appeal to the Regional Appellate Panel, followed by the Central Appeals Committee if still unsatisfied. The CAC’s decision is final.

Role of Integrity Officers

Integrity Officers will be appointed by National Sports Federations (NSFs) to ensure compliance with the code. Their duties include verifying documentation and reporting violations.

Centralised National Database

A dedicated digital portal will store all age verification data securely. The personal data of minors will be protected under the Digital Personal Data Protection Act, 2023.

QR-Enabled ID Cards

Athletes will receive ID cards with QR codes after successful verification. These cards must be presented for participation in all sporting events.

Public Accountability and Transparency

A robust monitoring framework will ensure effective implementation of the code. The Ministry will require regular compliance reports from NSFs and the Sports Authority of India (SAI). The NCAAFS will apply to all stakeholders in recognised sports federations and is intended to promote uniformity across states and Union Territories.

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