MP govt mulls recruiting national, intn’l athletes as gazetted officers

Bhopal: In order to promote sporting excellence and streamline talent absorption into public service, Madhya Pradesh’s sports department has submitted a proposal to the state government seeking direct appointment of outstanding athletes to gazetted officer positions.The proposal follows a recent govt gazette notification that authorised direct recruitment of high-achieving sportspersons into the state police department.Officials said the new measure aims to provide clear career pathways for elite athletes whose training and competition schedules often disrupt conventional recruitment processes.Under the draft proposal, athletes who have demonstrated exceptional performance at national and international competitions would be considered for direct entry into higher-grade administrative posts, bypassing several conventional recruitment stages.“The objective is two-fold: to reward athletes for their achievements and to retain sporting talent within the state by offering them stable and respected government careers,” a senior sports department official said. “This will encourage younger sportspersons and assure them of long-term social security after their competitive years.”The move is expected to complement existing welfare schemes for athletes, including scholarships, training support, and pension benefits.

Sources within the department said the proposed scheme includes eligibility criteria based on medal winnings, representation at major multi-sport events such as the Asian Games, Commonwealth Games, World Championships and the Olympics, and a minimum period of active participation at elite levels.While the police department’s recent notification allows direct recruitment of outstanding athletes into police ranks, the sports department’s proposal broadens the horizon by seeking gazetted posts across departments.

Gazetted positions—typically senior administrative roles—carry greater responsibility, higher pay scales and enhanced post-retirement benefits, making them particularly attractive options for sportspeople transitioning from competitive careers.Sports association representatives welcomed the initiative, calling it a step toward modernising recruitment and acknowledging sport as a public good deserving institutional support.

“This recognition will go a long way in motivating our athletes and will set a precedent for other states,” said a representative of a state athletes’ association.However, experts emphasised the need for transparent eligibility norms and a structured selection framework to prevent politicisation and ensure fairness. They recommended forming a multi-stakeholder committee—including sports federations, retired athletes and civil service experts—to finalise the criteria and oversee appointments.The proposal is now with the state government for consideration. If approved, Madhya Pradesh would join a growing list of Indian states adopting proactive measures to integrate sporting talent into public service, while signalling a shift toward more progressive athlete welfare policies.