The Athletics Federation of India announced it will certify synthetic tracks nationwide and launch new athlete testing protocols at its annual meeting in Kohima.
The move addresses concerns raised by World Athletics about the quality of Indian facilities. Substandard tracks can hinder performance, increase injury risk, and limit athletes’ ability to compete internationally.
AFI said more than 90% of India’s athletic tracks are substandard[1]. The federation plans a systematic certification program that will evaluate existing surfaces, mandate upgrades to meet global standards, and provide a label for compliant venues.
In parallel, AFI will introduce updated athlete testing protocols. These will include regular drug testing, equipment checks, and performance monitoring, aligned with World Athletics guidelines. The aim is to ensure Indian athletes meet the same eligibility criteria as their global peers.
Officials expect the certification and testing reforms to improve preparation for upcoming events such as the Asian Games and the 2028 Olympics. Better tracks and stricter testing are projected to raise competitive standards and attract international meets to India.
**What this means** The certification drive could close a long‑standing gap in India’s sports infrastructure, giving athletes access to world‑class surfaces and fostering fair competition. By aligning testing protocols with global norms, the federation also seeks to boost credibility and reduce the risk of sanctions, positioning India as a stronger contender on the international athletics stage.
“AFI will certify synthetic tracks across the country.”
The initiative is likely to elevate India’s athletics profile by modernizing facilities and ensuring compliance with international testing standards, which should improve athlete performance and attract global competitions.
