Physical fitness and sporting as engines of growth

In this modern age, a lot of stress is usually laid down upon games and sports in comparison to yesteryears. Nowadays, every nation wants to project its image and reputation. For the fulfillment of this objective, Nations are exploring sporting as a field for image enhancement, diplomatic engagements, business promotion, and cross-cultural exchange and even to smoothen out situations arising out of an armed conflict. The impact of sporting diplomacy is being seen in every other field which may be of national importance. Every nation strives to be seen ‘in greatness’ and therefore the best of the lot is being deployed to represent countries for international level sporting competitions. The question before every nation is how to get maximum medals at international level sports. As a consequence of this factor, many records are being broken by players/athletes in a way of suggesting the soft strength of their country. The standard of sports in every country is showing an increasing trend, and the same is applicable back home in India. There is every effort on part of the States, Centre, and service establishments in encouraging sporting activity. It is often linked to professional growth as well. Take the armed forces for example. They have regular intra and inter services games. The best of the lot is then picked up from there to represent the country at international events like track and field games, rifle and pistol shooting, archery, yachting, sailing, and several others. The services encourage their rank and file to participate and demonstrate their mettle. This becomes a motivator for others to come forward to show or develop talent. Gradually, sports have become an industry in itself and the results are encouraging. Major business houses have started to show interest in ownership of sporting teams. While it may be a revenue generation model at that level, it is significant for us to understand that wellness and lifestyle changes for leading a healthy life in today’s world are not enough. Contribution to growth by way of sporting activity is as much important as other professional activities where businesses can play a leading role. Some of the suggestions could be setting up sporting universities and focusing on the rural youth to develop and enhance their potential and contribute to the nation’s growth.

Souradip Sarkar is a Semester III student the of MBA 22-24 batch and is specialising in Finance and Information Technology (IT).

Article edited by Prof. Cdr Himanshu Joshi .