Technology and sports should go together for development in the sporting world. The Indian Institute of Technology Madras (IIT Madras) has understood the importance and is setting a stage to transform the sports landscape in India. ‘Sports Tech Startup Conclave’ event scheduled to be held on July 12 and 13 in New Delhi is a declaration of IIT Madras’ commitment to foster innovation in sports technology.
The Conclave is organized by the IIT Madras Centre of Excellence in Sports Science and Analytics (CESSA) and it marks a crucial step towards creating a robust sports tech ecosystem. IIT Madras has invested Rs 5 crore to support ten sports tech startups in the country. It is learned at least 200 innovative sports technology startups will be supported in the period of next five years.
CESSA CEO Ramesh Kumar emphasized importance of fostering research and development as well as creating infrastructure to support sports tech ventures. The New Delhi Conclave is believed to become a melting pot for stakeholders.
The move is aligned with Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative of Indian government and to focus more in sports goods manufacturing and technological support. IIT Madras is laying the groundwork for a self-reliant sports industry.
The timing of the Conclave is strategic. Olympic Games Paris 2024 is to kick off on July 26. The long-term vision includes technological support for the potential hosting of the Olympics 2036. It would be an aspiration that signifies growing prominence of India in the global sports arena.
The Conclave promises revolutionary sports education through digital platforms. It is also set to broaden access to quality education. The approach is highly holistic and addresses immediate needs of sports tech startups.
