AIFF President Kalyan Chaubey has expressed his support for the government's Khelo Bharat Niti, particularly its potential to include players of Indian origin living abroad in the national team. Chaubey views this as a "ray of hope" for improving the national team's performance. He also acknowledged the difficulties in implementing the policy due to FIFA and Indian citizenship rules.
The new Khelo Bharat Niti, which received Cabinet approval on July 1, 2025, signals a shift from the government's previous stance that only Indian passport holders can represent the country. Chaubey stated that access to India's diaspora talent is an area the AIFF has been actively working on. He is pleased that the policy includes reference to this matter.
Chaubey emphasized that the AIFF will continue to collaborate with FIFA and the government to strengthen the national team. He noted that many countries, including Vietnam, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, Malaysia, Hong Kong, Singapore, Middle Eastern nations, and European countries, have benefited from naturalized players with dual citizenship.
The ban in 2008 on Overseas Citizens of India (OCI) card holders from representing the country hindered the growth of Indian sports. However, the Khelo Bharat Niti recognizes the potential of sports to bridge the gap between the Indian diaspora and the country, fostering emotional, cultural, and social connections. The policy suggests organizing dedicated sporting events and leagues for the Indian diaspora. It also proposes encouraging promising Indian-origin athletes living abroad to return and play for India.
In an exclusive interview with Sportstar, Chaubey explained that OCI and Person of Indian Origin (PIO) cardholders are foreign nationals with limited social and economic rights in India. Since India does not recognize dual citizenship, these cards do not grant Indian nationality. However, these cardholders often have strong ancestral ties to India, which can influence sporting eligibility and potentially allow for national representation.
The AIFF is exploring how PIO/OCI players can align with FIFA statutes, Indian citizenship laws, and the national sports policy. This is an ongoing process, and the AIFF cannot disclose any names until they receive clarity from FIFA and the Government of India. The AIFF has been urged by the sporting fraternity and fans to integrate OCI and PIO players into the national team. However, a 2008 directive from the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports (MYAS) mandates that only Indian citizens with a valid Indian passport can represent India in international sports.
