India has announced a new sports policy that allows Pakistani athletes and teams to participate in international and multilateral sporting events hosted in the country.
The decision was made by the Indian Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports on May 6, 2026. However, bilateral sports competitions between India and Pakistan will remain suspended.
Under the new rules, Pakistani players can now compete in multi-nation events like the Asian Games, Commonwealth Games, or other international tournaments organised in India.
The government has also promised to simplify visa procedures for athletes, officials, and technical staff. Multi-entry visas will be available for representatives of international sports bodies.
This policy separates bilateral ties from multilateral events. India will not send teams for a one-on-one series with Pakistan, especially in cricket, and will not allow Pakistani teams for bilateral matches in India.
India is also set ​to host the Commonwealth Games in 2030, while they ‌have also bid for the 2036 Olympics and the 2038 Asian Games in Ahmedabad.
The move aims to strengthen India’s image as a global sports host as it prepares bids for major events, including the Olympics, Asian Games, and Commonwealth Games.
The decision is seen as a balanced approach. It allows Indian athletes to compete against Pakistanis in neutral multi-country events while keeping direct bilateral sports ties on hold.
