The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) exam is one of the most prestigious and challenging examinations in India. It is known for its diverse syllabus, which tests candidates’ knowledge across a wide range of subjects, including current affairs, history, geography, science, and more. Among these topics, sports hold a significant place, often featuring in both the Preliminary (Prelims) and Main (Mains) examinations. Sports-related questions can cover various aspects, such as recent sports events, significant achievements, government policies, sports personalities, and the socio-economic impact of sports.
Importance of Sports in UPSC Exams
Sports-related questions in the UPSC exams reflect the Commission’s effort to assess a candidate’s overall awareness, including their understanding of cultural and social aspects that shape the country. Here’s why sports are an essential component of the UPSC syllabus:
- Relevance to Current Affairs: Sports events, tournaments, and achievements are an integral part of current affairs. They frequently make headlines in national and international news, making them a relevant topic for the UPSC exams.
- Promoting a Holistic Understanding: By including sports in the syllabus, UPSC encourages aspirants to have a well-rounded knowledge base. Sports influence social, cultural, and economic dimensions, which are crucial for future civil servants to understand.
- Reflecting Government Initiatives: The Government of India has launched several initiatives and policies related to sports, such as the Khelo India Programme, Fit India Movement, and other schemes aimed at promoting sports and fitness. Understanding these policies is crucial for aspirants preparing for roles in administration.
- Connecting Sports with Societal Impact: Sports play a vital role in national integration, fostering international relations, and promoting a healthy lifestyle. UPSC often includes sports questions to gauge a candidate’s understanding of these wider implications.
Types of Sports-Related Questions in UPSC Exams
Sports-related questions in UPSC exams can be broadly categorized into several types:
- Current Sports Events and Tournaments: Questions about recent sports events, tournaments, and championships are common. These questions may focus on international competitions such as the Olympics, Asian Games, Commonwealth Games, FIFA World Cup, or national events like the National Games of India.
- Sports Personalities and Achievements: UPSC often asks questions about notable sports personalities and their achievements. This could include recent awards like the Rajiv Gandhi Khel Ratna Award (now renamed the Major Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna Award), Arjuna Award, Padma Awards related to sports, or recognition given by international sports bodies.
- Historical Sports Milestones: Questions may also cover significant historical milestones in sports, such as India’s first Olympic medal, important cricket series, or achievements of sports icons like Sachin Tendulkar, P.T. Usha, Milkha Singh, and Abhinav Bindra.
- Government Policies and Initiatives: Sports-related questions can also focus on government schemes and policies aimed at promoting sports in India. Examples include the National Sports Development Fund (NSDF), Khelo India Scheme, and the Fit India Movement.
- Sports Organizations and Governing Bodies: Questions can cover various sports organizations, both national (like the Board of Control for Cricket in India – BCCI and the Sports Authority of India – SAI) and international (such as the International Olympic Committee – IOC or the Fédération Internationale de Football Association – FIFA).
- Miscellaneous Sports Knowledge: This includes questions on sports terminologies, the origins of various sports, the number of players in different sports, sports rules, venues, and records.
Examples of Sports-Related Questions in UPSC Exams
To give you a clearer understanding, here are a few examples of sports-related questions that have appeared in UPSC exams in recent years:
- Prelims 2020: “With reference to the Indian men’s hockey team, consider the following statements:
- It won the Olympic gold medal in 1980.
- It has won eight gold medals in total at the Olympics.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?”
- Answer: Both 1 and 2.
- Prelims 2019: “Consider the following statements regarding the ‘Khelo India Programme’:
- It aims to provide a long-term athlete development pathway.
- It provides financial support for selected athletes for up to 8 years.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?”
- Answer: Both 1 and 2.
- Prelims 2018: “Which of the following is the governing body of football worldwide?
a) International Olympic Committee
b) Fédération Internationale de Football Association
c) Asian Football Confederation
d) None of the above”- Answer: b) Fédération Internationale de Football Association (FIFA).
- Mains 2017: “Discuss the impact of recent initiatives taken by the Government of India to promote sports in the country. What steps should be taken to encourage the participation of women in sports?”
These examples illustrate the range and depth of sports-related questions in UPSC exams, highlighting the need for aspirants to be well-versed in various aspects of sports.
How to Prepare for Sports-Related Questions in UPSC Exams
Preparing for sports-related questions requires a strategic approach that involves staying updated with current affairs, understanding government policies, and having a good grasp of sports history and general knowledge. Here are some steps to help you prepare effectively:
- Regularly Follow Sports News: Make it a habit to read newspapers, sports magazines, and online portals that cover national and international sports events. Focus on major tournaments, Indian athletes’ performances, and significant sports news.
- Refer to UPSC Preparation Materials: Use UPSC-specific preparation books and study materials that cover current affairs, including sports. Books like Lucent’s General Knowledge and Manorama Yearbook are great resources for general awareness, including sports.
- Keep Track of Government Initiatives: Stay informed about government schemes and policies related to sports. Make notes on initiatives like the Khelo India Programme, Fit India Movement, and various funding and support schemes for athletes.
- Understand Key Sports Organizations: Familiarize yourself with national and international sports organizations, their roles, and functions. Understand the structure and significance of organizations like the International Olympic Committee (IOC), Fédération Internationale de Football Association (FIFA), and the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI).
- Study Sports Personalities: Learn about prominent sports personalities, their achievements, awards, and contributions to their respective sports. Make sure to cover both historical figures and contemporary athletes.
- Use Online Resources: Utilize online platforms like PIB (Press Information Bureau), Sports Authority of India (SAI) website, and other government portals to access authentic information about sports-related news and policies.
- Practice Previous Year Questions: Solving previous year question papers will help you understand the type of sports-related questions asked in the UPSC exams and identify important areas to focus on.
Important Areas to Focus on for Sports-Related Questions
To increase your chances of scoring well in sports-related questions, concentrate on the following key areas:
- Major International Tournaments and Events:
- Understand the format, history, and significance of events like the Olympics, FIFA World Cup, ICC Cricket World Cup, Asian Games, and Commonwealth Games.
- Keep track of the latest editions, host countries, winners, and records set during these events.
- National Sports Events and Awards:
- Be familiar with national sports events like the National Games of India and other domestic tournaments.
- Know about sports awards like the Rajiv Gandhi Khel Ratna Award, Arjuna Award, Dronacharya Award, and Dhyan Chand Award.
- Government Policies and Programs:
- Study the objectives, funding, and implementation details of government initiatives such as the Khelo India Programme, National Sports Development Fund (NSDF), and Fit India Movement.
- Sports Personalities:
- Focus on both historical and contemporary sports personalities who have made significant contributions to Indian and global sports.
- Miscellaneous Knowledge:
- Understand basic sports terminologies, rules, and formats.
- Know about important sports venues, both national and international.
Key Government Initiatives and Policies Related to Sports
Understanding government initiatives and policies related to sports is crucial for answering sports-related questions in UPSC exams. Here are some key programs and policies to focus on:
- Khelo India Programme:
- Launched in 2018, the Khelo India Programme aims to revitalize the sports culture in India at the grassroots level by promoting sports for all.
- It provides financial support to athletes for training, coaching, and international exposure. It also focuses on developing sports infrastructure and identifying talent at the grassroots level.
- Fit India Movement:
- The Fit India Movement was launched in 2019 to encourage people to stay healthy and fit through regular physical activities and sports.
- It aims to make fitness a way of life by promoting fitness-related activities, competitions, and campaigns across the country.
- National Sports Development Fund (NSDF):
- Established in 1998, the NSDF provides financial support for the development of sports infrastructure, training of athletes, and support for coaches.
- The fund is managed by the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports and aims to promote excellence in sports.
- Target Olympic Podium Scheme (TOPS):
- Launched in 2014, the TOPS scheme aims to identify and support potential medal prospects for the Olympics and Paralympics.
- Athletes selected under the scheme receive financial assistance, coaching, and international exposure to enhance their performance.
- Sports Authority of India (SAI):
- SAI is the apex national sports body responsible for the development and promotion of sports in India.
- It operates various sports training centers, provides coaching, and manages sports infrastructure across the country.
Recent Developments in Indian Sports
Staying updated with recent developments in Indian sports is crucial for answering current affairs-based questions in the UPSC exams. Some notable recent events include:
- India’s Performance at the Tokyo 2020 Olympics:
- India achieved its best-ever Olympic performance, winning a total of 7 medals, including 1 gold (Neeraj Chopra in javelin throw), 2 silver (Mirabai Chanu in weightlifting and Ravi Kumar Dahiya in wrestling), and 4 bronze (P.V. Sindhu in badminton, Lovlina Borgohain in boxing, Bajrang Punia in wrestling, and the men’s hockey team).
- Women’s Achievements in Sports:
- The performance of Indian women athletes has been commendable in recent years, with achievements in sports like boxing (Mary Kom), badminton (P.V. Sindhu and Saina Nehwal), shooting (Manu Bhaker), and wrestling (Vinesh Phogat).
- Introduction of New Sports Schemes:
- The government has introduced new schemes and initiatives aimed at promoting specific sports. For example, the introduction of schemes to promote indigenous sports like Mallakhamb, Kabaddi, and Kho Kho under the Khelo India Programme.
- India’s Bid to Host International Events:
- India has been actively bidding to host major international sports events, including the 2023 IOC Session in Mumbai and the 2027 Asian Games. These developments reflect India’s growing importance on the global sports stage.
Conclusion: Mastering Sports-Related Questions for UPSC Exams
Sports-related questions in the UPSC exams can be challenging, but with the right preparation strategy, candidates can score well in this section. A deep understanding of current affairs, sports history, government policies, and key sports organizations is essential. Staying updated with recent developments in Indian and global sports, practicing past papers, and using a variety of resources will enhance your knowledge and confidence in answering these questions.
By preparing comprehensively, candidates can ensure they are well-equipped to tackle sports-related questions in the UPSC exams and demonstrate their holistic understanding of this important area. This not only helps in scoring marks but also reflects the candidate’s awareness of the socio-cultural dimensions that shape India’s development trajectory.
