The K J Somaiya Institute of Management (KJSIM), in collaboration with the Indian Sport Management Association (INSMA), recently organized a conference titled “Shaping the Future of Sport in India: Innovation, Inclusion & Integrity” at its Somaiya Vidyavihar campus.

The event gathered industry leaders, professionals, and students to discuss innovation and governance as crucial pillars for India’s sports ecosystem.

Delivering the keynote address, Dr. Christos Anagnostopoulos, UNESCO Chair on Governance and Social Responsibility in Sport, stressed the need for ethical governance in national sports federations. Highlighting lessons from countries like Norway, he urged India to adopt robust frameworks to unlock its sporting potential. His remarks came against the backdrop of the recently introduced National Sports Governance Bill 2024.

Speakers such as Pradyot Sharma (International Sport and Culture Association) and Aman Jain (IOS Sports & Entertainment) addressed inclusion and integrity in sports. Sessions by industry stalwarts like Vijayaraghavan Venugopal (Co-founder, Fast & Up) and Ramakrishnan R (Baseline Ventures) delved into sports marketing and nation-building.

The conference also featured a panel discussion and 31 research paper presentations on topics ranging from gender equality in sports to governance challenges in motorsports.

Dr. Raman Ramachandran, Dean of KJSIM, emphasized the institute’s vision, stating, “Sports shape not just athletes but well-rounded individuals. This conference reflects our commitment to fostering innovation, inclusion, and integrity.”

With over 175 participants from eight countries, the event provided a platform for meaningful dialogue aimed at strengthening India’s sports ecosystem.