Aminul sets tough targets for sports federations

Expanding its campaign to revamp Bangladesh’s sporting landscape, the government has laid out a stringent operational roadmap for sports federations, mandating active domestic and international engagement to ensure long-term development.

​Aminul Haque, the State Minister for Youth and Sports and chairman of the National Sports Council (NSC), announced the directives during a follow-up exchange meeting at the NSC conference room with top officials from 13 newly appointed ad-hoc sports federations. This session completes the ministry's initial briefings, following an earlier meeting with 14 other governing bodies.

​To drive systematic growth, the minister directed all federations to draft a comprehensive five-year sports calendar. Under the new framework, it is now compulsory for every federation to host a minimum of four national-level tournaments annually.

​Furthermore, the bodies must elevate their global footprint by participating in at least three international competitions each year. Federations can achieve this either by fielding national teams abroad or by organising international tournaments on home soil.

​To maintain high competitive standards and ensure accountability, athlete allowances will now be tied directly to a strict performance review conducted every four months. Underperforming athletes will be removed from the rosters to create pathways for emerging, high-potential talent.

​During the meeting, the minister reaffirmed a zero-tolerance policy regarding corruption and indiscipline. He warned that irregularities accumulated over the past 17 years are actively being investigated by state agencies. Noting the presence of senior military and police officials, Haque emphasised that the law applies equally to all and that any official proven guilty of corruption will face immediate legal prosecution alongside administrative sanctions.

​Focusing on inclusivity and welfare, the minister also demanded a safe, secure, and disciplined environment for female athletes. He praised the ongoing efforts of the Bangladesh Women's Sports Association and veteran organisers, while calling for upgraded security protocols across all national sports complexes.

Aminul concluded by instructing the ad-hoc officials to carry out their developmental duties with utmost dedication and transparency until the upcoming District Sports Association elections are finalised.