The 8th National Conference on Physical Education and Sports Sciences (NCPESS 2026) was successfully organized by the Physical Education Foundation of India (PEFI) on 06–07 February 2026 at NDMC Convention Centre, New Delhi. The conference served as a significant national platform bringing together professionals from the fields of physical education, sports science, sports management, coaching, and sports policy to deliberate on the future of sports development in India. 

With the theme “Global Spotlight: India’s Transformative Vision for the 2036 Olympics,” the two-day conference focused on strengthening the ecosystem of physical education, sports sciences, and high-performance sports in India.

Participation and Impact

The conference witnessed participation from over 700 delegates representing 150+ institutions across 25 states of India, including physical education teachers, sports scientists, coaches, researchers, academicians, administrators, and sports development professionals.

Key highlights of the conference included:

• 30+ distinguished speakers from government, academia, and the sports industry

• 06 panel discussion sessions addressing critical issues in sports development

• 70+ research paper presentations by scholars and researchers

• Release of the National Survey on the Status of Physical Education in the Indian School Education System

• Launch of 8 academic books related to physical education and sports sciences.

Inaugural Session

The conference commenced with an inspiring inaugural session featuring a video message from Hon’ble Union Minister for Youth Affairs & Sports, Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya, who emphasized the foundational role of physical education teachers in identifying and nurturing future Olympic champions.

The keynote address was delivered by Dr. Shobhit Jain, Joint Secretary (Policy), Ministry of Youth Affairs & Sports, who highlighted the importance of developing a scientific and structured sports ecosystem beginning at the school level.

The session was further enriched by the presence of eminent dignitaries including:

• Shri Bharat Singh Kushwaha, Member of Parliament

• Dr. G. Kishore, Vice Chancellor, Young India Sports University

• Dr. Shyam Sundar Rath, Vice Chancellor (Officiating), National Sports University

• Dr. A. K. Uppal, Chairman – PEFI

• Dr. A. K. Bansal, President – PEFI and Dronacharya Awardee.

Dr. Piyush Jain, National Secretary of PEFI, delivered the welcome address and highlighted the historic importance of the conference for the growth of physical education and sports sciences in India.

Technical Sessions and Knowledge Exchange

The conference featured six technical sessions and panel discussions covering diverse themes related to sports development and high-performance systems.

Major themes included:

• Sports as a Tool for Social Change and Youth Empowerment

• Institutional Transformation for India’s 2036 Olympic Vision

• Anti-Doping Reforms and Evidence-Based Sports Nutrition

• Technological Innovations in Sports Training

• Return-to-Play Decisions and Athlete Welfare

• Strengthening Grassroots Sports and Physical Education Curriculum

Experts discussed the importance of sports science integration, talent identification, sports infrastructure development, and ethical sports practices to strengthen India’s sporting ecosystem.

Research Paper Presentations

Parallel academic sessions provided a platform for 70+ research scholars and practitioners to present their research work in areas such as:

• Exercise Physiology

• Sports Psychology

• Biomechanics

• Sports Management

• Injury Prevention

• Technology in Sports Training

• Talent Identification and Community Sports Development.

These sessions facilitated valuable knowledge exchange and promoted research-driven policy dialogue within the sports ecosystem.

Day 2 Highlights

The second day featured keynote addresses on mega sporting events, sports tourism, technological developments in sports training, and the integration of sports sciences for Olympic success.

Experts highlighted the importance of data-driven athlete monitoring, wearable technology, sports analytics, and multidisciplinary sports science support systems to enhance athlete performance and global competitiveness.

Closing Ceremony

The conference concluded with an inspiring Valedictory Session graced by Shri Harsh Malhotra, Hon’ble Minister of State for Road Transport and Highways, as the Chief Guest.

The event was further enriched by the presence of Olympic Silver Medallist Shri Ravi Dahiya, who shared his journey from grassroots sports to the Olympic podium and emphasized the critical role of physical education teachers and coaches in shaping champions.

Conference Outcomes

The conference resulted in several key outcomes aimed at strengthening India’s sports ecosystem:

• Promoting research-based policy development in sports and physical education

• Enhancing collaboration between educational institutions, sports organizations, and policymakers

• Strengthening grassroots participation and talent identification systems

• Integrating sports science and technology in athlete development

• Supporting India’s long-term vision for the 2036 Olympic Games.

Conclusion

The 8th NCPESS 2026 successfully created a national platform for collaboration among policymakers, educators, sports scientists, and practitioners. With strong participation, impactful discussions, and actionable recommendations, the conference marked a significant step toward strengthening the physical education and sports science ecosystem in India.

The event reaffirmed the collective commitment of stakeholders to contribute towards building a stronger sporting nation and realizing India’s Olympic aspirations for 2036.

Access the Full Conference Report

For detailed insights, session highlights, research presentations, and event highlights of the 8th National Conference on Physical Education and Sports Sciences (NCPESS 2026), you can view or download the complete post-event report from the link below.

Click here to view the full report:- https://drive.google.com/file/d/1-hvJb618ybCY3HvLacKYA2N4bkn39UAc/view?usp=sharing