Parliament Question: Sports activities in BSNL

GOVERNMENT OF INDIA MINISTRY OF COMMUNICATIONS DEPARTMENT OF TELECOMMUNICATIONS LOK SABHA UNSTARRED QUESTION NO. 3160 TO BE ANSWERED ON 11TH MARCH, 2026 SPORTS ACTIVITIES IN BSNL 3160. SHRI ANURAG SINGH THAKUR: Will the Minister of COMMUNICATIONS be pleased to state: (a) whether BSNL has taken a decision to suspend its sports activities including support for disciplines such as cricket, athletics, badminton, volleyball and kabaddi which may affect dedicated athletes employed by the organisation who have proudly represented India at national and international levels; (b) if so, the rationale for this step; (c) the details of any representations or appeals received from concerned athletes, coaches, or associations including those from BSNL's national teams of various sports; (d) whether the Government intends to review this decision, encourage discussions with stakeholders and sustain support for sports talent in BSNL; and (e) if not, the supportive alternatives being explored to protect the welfare of these athletes and strengthen the national sports framework? ANSWER MINISTER OF STATE FOR COMMUNICATIONS AND RURAL DEVELOPMENT (DR. PEMMASANI CHANDRA SEKHAR) (a) & (b) BSNL has temporarily suspended its sports activities purely as an austerity measure in view of the prevailing financial constraints. (c) BSNL had received representations from Unions/Associations for restoration of sports activities in BSNL. (d) & (e) The restoration of sports activities would be reviewed after improvement in financial condition of BSNL. ***** 1