We, the undersigned, bring to your attention the urgent need to reconsider the current Goods and Services Tax (GST) structure applied to sports activities and related services in our country. The impact of the 18% GST on participation fees, coaching services, and various expenses incurred by sports organizations is hindering the growth of the sports sector, affecting both private entities and individuals involved.

Who is Impacted? The sports sector is a burgeoning industry in our nation, encompassing various government and private organizations conducting sporting events. Unfortunately, the existing GST structure places a burden on sports organizations, including neighborhood clubs, coaches, and larger privately-run entities. This tax extends to sponsorship, coaching fees, umpiring, refereeing, and other services, hampering the development of sports culture at both local and national levels.

What is at Stake? The implementation of GST has altered the landscape of the sports sector, subjecting it to an 18% tax that adversely affects schools' ability to provide sports education. This tax burden has led to a decline in sales of sporting goods, a reduction in participation in sports activities by students and schools, and an overall negative impact on the sports infrastructure.

Why is Now the Time to Act? Despite the government's introduction of various schemes and programs to support the sports sector, the burden of GST remains a significant obstacle. The decline in sales and the challenges faced by aspiring athletes underscore the urgent need for private individuals, MSMEs, and corporations to play a crucial role in nurturing the talent pool of our country.

Call to Action:

We urge you to consider the following actions:

Review and revise the GST structure on sports activities, coaching services, and related expenses to promote the growth of the sports sector.
Extend GST exemptions to all entities involved in sports, including neighborhood clubs, coaches, and larger privately-run organizations.
Align the GST structure with the vision of creating a united and fit nation, as emphasized by Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

Conclusion: A rational and comprehensive approach to GST on sports will not only foster a thriving sports culture but also contribute significantly to the development of a robust sporting economy. We believe that by addressing this issue, we can collectively create an environment that encourages and supports the aspirations of our athletes.

We appreciate your attention to this matter and anticipate positive changes that will propel the sports sector to new heights.