India’s Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports has formally announced that the country will not participate in any bilateral sporting events with Pakistan. However, both nations will still be permitted to compete against each other in international competitions.
According to a document published on August 20, Indian teams will not travel to Pakistan for competitions, and Pakistani teams will not be allowed to play in India in any bilateral capacity. This policy reaffirms New Delhi’s firm stance on sporting ties with Islamabad, which have been strained by ongoing diplomatic and security tensions.
“In so far as bilateral sports events in each other’s country are concerned, Indian teams will not be participating in competitions in Pakistan. Nor will we permit Pakistani teams to play in India,” the official communication stated.
However, participation in events organized by international sporting bodies remains allowed. The Ministry clarified that Indian and Pakistani teams and individual athletes can compete in multilateral events held either in India or abroad, as long as these fall under the governance of global sports organizations.
In addition to its position on Pakistan, the Sports Ministry emphasized its efforts to enhance India’s appeal as a host for major international sporting events. The government announced new measures to streamline visa procedures for foreign athletes, team officials, and technical staff.
Officials from international sports bodies can now receive multi-entry visas valid for up to five years, which will facilitate easier access to India for various competitions and conferences. The policy also mandates that dignitaries from international sports federations receive appropriate protocol and hospitality during their visits, in line with established diplomatic and sporting norms.
The Ministry stated, “It is also relevant to take into account India’s emergence as a credible venue to host international sports events. Accordingly, Indian teams and individual players will take part in international events that also have teams or players from Pakistan. Similarly, Pakistani players and teams will be able to participate in such multilateral events hosted by India.”
The Ministry added: “To position India as a preferred destination for hosting international sporting events, the visa process for sportspersons, team officials, technical personnel, and office-bearers of International Sports Governing Bodies shall be simplified.”
