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SPORTSCOM’s Annual Session and Giving Wings to Dreams Conclave brought together G Sathiyan, policymakers, investors and industry leaders to discuss India’s sports ecosystem, manufacturing, startups and the 2036 Olympic vision, with a focus on collaboration and economic growth.

New Delhi: Olympian and Arjuna Award-winning table tennis player G. Sathiyan, alongside senior government officials, investors, and key sports ecosystem stakeholders, gathered at Shangri-La Eros for SPORTSCOM’s Annual Session and the second edition of the Giving Wings to Dreams Conclave on Tuesday.

Delivering the keynote address, G. Sathiyan emphasized that India’s transformation into a global sporting powerhouse hinges on sustained, collaborative support across the government, corporate sector, leagues, sponsors, and the broader industry. Reflecting on his career since age five, he noted how sports have evolved from an extracurricular pursuit into a viable profession and economic driver.

"It’s not just about athletes. For athletes to perform in the arena, you need a whole lot of people coming together. Athletes showcase talent, but they perform only when there is immense support from corporates and the government," said Sathiyan. He stressed the role of grassroots visibility, adding, "When parents start seeing Olympians and Asian Games medalists close to home, they will believe their children can reach the next level. India can truly become a sporting powerhouse."

The inaugural session brought together policymakers to outline the country's macro sporting framework. Hari Ranjan Rao, Secretary – Sports, Ministry of Youth Affairs & Sports (MYAS), detailed upcoming policy developments, including the National Sports Policy, National Sports Governance Act, National Sports Board, and National Sports Tribunal. He also highlighted the proposed Sports Goods Manufacturing Scheme and the importance of fan engagement.