Patna: Bihar is set to become the first state in India to formulate a dedicated Women Athlete Health and Welfare Policy aimed at enhancing the development of its female sportspersons. The Bihar State Sports Authority organised a discussion on the draft policy on July 4 at Patliputra Sports Complex, Patna, with over 30 Olympians, trainers, and experts from across the country sharing their insights.
The meeting was attended by Director General of Bihar State Sports Authority Ravindra Shankar, Director Ravindra Nath Choudhary, former Director Sanjay Kumar Sinha, and Deputy Director Himanshu Singh, along with prominent figures such as Olympian swimmer Mana Patel, Director of IIM Bodhgaya Vinita S Sahay, women entrepreneur and IT expert Himani Mishra, Managing Director of Brand Radiator, Dani Sports Foundation Director and former CEO of TOPS Commodore Rajesh Rajagopalan, gynaecologist Rituraj, Olympian Gavin Ferreira, sports psychologist Priya, lead sports nutritionist Mihira, and sports science expert Jahnvi Dande.
The policy aims to address the unique health and welfare needs of women athletes, with a special focus on menstrual health, nutritional deficiencies, and psychological support to strengthen their physical and mental preparedness for competitions.
Globally, studies indicate that 80% of female athletes experience menstrual-related symptoms that impact performance, yet fewer than 10% feel comfortable discussing them with their coaches. In India, 82% of women say menstruation interferes with their training and performance.
With the growing participation of women in sports at both grassroots and elite levels, Bihar State Sports Authority’s initiative is expected to further boost medal prospects and inspire more young girls to pursue sports professionally. The state government’s commitment to holistic athlete development has been pivotal in Bihar’s steady rise within India’s sporting landscape.
