The Task Force on Unified Framework for Development of Coaching Ecosystem in India, in its report submitted to the Ministry has recommended creation of a unified national framework for coach education and accreditation, standardisation of coaching curricula, introduction of a tiered national coaching pathway from grassroots to elite level, adoption of a practice-oriented training model, mandatory licensing and Continuing Professional Development (CPD) for coaches, integration of coaching qualifications with National Skills Qualifications Framework (NSQF) and National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, performance-based evaluation mechanisms, incentive structures for coaches, and strengthening of ethics, safety and inclusivity in coaching. These recommendations are intended to be implemented uniformly across the country and are relevant for all States, including Telangana and Madhya Pradesh.

The Task Force has recommended to establish a National Coach Accreditation Board (NCAB) as an apex authority responsible for setting national standards for coach education and accreditation, approve and monitor coaching pathways, accredit coach education institutions, design a unified core curriculum across sports, oversee licensing and renewal of coaches, and ensure quality assurance and alignment with NSQF and NEP 2020.

The Task Force has recommended the implementation of a structured, tiered national coaching pathway covering Grassroots, Intermediate, Elite and National Team coaches, across the country, including in the State of Telangana. The pathway also integrates community coaches and Physical Education (PE) teachers as feeder streams. Measures proposed include clearly defined entry and progression criteria at each level; a Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) mechanism to facilitate transition of former elite athletes into coaching; bridge programmes to enable PE teachers to upskill without disrupting school responsibilities; and a five-star performance rating system linked to athlete development outcomes, advanced certifications and mentorship, which would provide access to higher-level assignments and incentives.

Implementation of the Task Force recommendations is in a phased manner. Initial steps such as establishment of NCAB and finalisation of the unified curriculum are envisaged in the short term, followed by roll-out of licensing and tiered pathways.

This information was given by the Minister of Youth Affairs and Sports, Dr Mansukh Mandaviya in a written reply to a question in Lok Sabha on Monday.