Representative image (PTI image)
NEW DELHI: Athletics body AFI has come under serious pressure after the Athletics Integrity Unit (AIU) placed the country in the category most at risk of doping. This happened because India has recorded the highest number of doping violations in recent years, even surpassing countries like Kenya.
As a result, Indian athletes will now face stricter testing and monitoring rules in international competitions.
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The Athletics Federation of India (AFI) has been moved from Category B (moderate risk) to Category A (highest risk). This means that more frequent testing, including spot checks and blood tests, will be mandatory. The International Integrity Unit took this decision after reviewing the high number of doping cases in India between 2022 and 2025.The head of the International Integrity Unit, David Homan, explained this concern, saying that the doping issue in India “has been very serious for a long time” and that the system in place is not strong enough to deal with it. Athletes will now need to meet more stringent conditions, including multiple out-of-competition tests before major events such as the Olympics or World Championships.AFI accepted the decision and promised to improve the situation. As reported by news agency PTI, the AFI said: “Through ongoing collaboration with the AIU, NADA and the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports, the AFI is confident that India will overcome the challenge and will soon be removed from Category A.”
The federation also stressed that doping is harmful to sport, and said it was working with agencies such as the National Anti-Doping Agency (NADA) to improve awareness, testing and investigations. It has even prompted tougher measures against coaches and other participants, especially at the grassroots level.