The Changing Landscape of Women in India

For decades women in sports have largely been non-existent or ignored in India. It has been a largely male-dominated area with barely any opportunities and benefits for women. The inclusion of women in sports has long been an elusive dream, but this seems to be changing. With the support of government schemes, changing social attitudes, and the grit and determination of several female sportspersons, we are now on the brink of a revolution in sporting history. A shining example of this is the whopping 43% female athletes in India’s Tokyo Olympics contingent.?

Nurturing Female Sportspersons

The Khelo India Scheme, which is a gender-neutral initiative, aims at finding and feeding talent at the grass root levels through various means. However, one of its components- “Sports for Women”- is exclusively focused on promoting sports among women. It aims at identifying talent by organising matches in collaboration with National Sports Federations to encourage talented women athletes to participate in sports. They also now have access to exclusive training centres for women that are being developed across the country. A direct result of government-led and supported programs has been the increase in female athletes from just 657 being supported under the Khelo India scheme in 2018 to 1471 in 2021.?

Women Who Raised The Bar

The journey of the evolution of women in sports could not have been possible without the massive contribution of female athletes. The gritty women who fought the odds to emerge winners, literally and figuratively! Podium finishes by women at various international events made the Indian society, media, and organisations take notice of the vast untapped potential that lies unearthed. Notable names like PV Sindhu, Mary Kom, Hima Das, Mithali Raj, Dipa Karmakar, Deepika Kumari, Sania Mirza and many others have paved the way for women. They have shown the world and the country that given the chance they have the potential to excel. Not only have they performed par excellence, but some have also been instrumental in shaking the deep-rooted inequalities by making sports accessible to all through their training schools. Mary Kom Boxing Foundation, Sarita Boxing Academy, Ashwini Sports Foundation, Karnam Malleshwari Foundation, Anju Bobby George Sports Foundation, etc., are some examples of their continued contribution towards the upliftment of female players.?

Sustaining Sporting Excellence

The emphasis must now be on changing social mindsets and encouraging women in sports. This is a critical step not just to create a bigger pool for international sporting events but also to herald socio-economic development and personal growth. Sport has the power to drive gender equality by instilling teamwork, confidence, and self-reliance. The inclusion of women in sports will pave the way for societal reform and enhance human capital.?

At Hudle we aim to be a part of this changing narrative. Through gender-neutral initiatives like HudlePlay, we intend to encourage more women to take up games at the recreational level. A sporting revolution is burgeoning in the country, and we hope to contribute meaningfully towards its development.?