Khelo India School Games: 12 athletes reported as defaulters in NADA's dope test 

What's the story?

The National Anti-Doping Agency (NADA) confirmed that dope test results, in which 12 athletes of the Khelo India School Games came back positive in the usage of banned drugs in India. The athletes were three boxers, four wrestlers, two gymnasts and others from athletics, judo and volleyball.

In case you didn't know...

The dope test, held in New Delhi between January 31 and February 8 by NADA, in which 12 athletes tested positive, caught the usage of furosemide and terbutaline by most of these athletes.

The inaugural edition of the Khelo India Games was launched by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, earlier this year. Five of these athletes were the gold medalists, while one girl athlete was also held for the use of illegal drugs, which helps in increase body strength.

The heart of the matter

The 12 athletes who were a part of Khelo India School Games, failed to pass the drug test by National Anti Doping Agency (NADA). After the test, a few of the athletes were suspended. One of the boxers has been handed a provisional suspension, in the usage of Stanozolol, a strength-enhancing drug that is illegal in India.

The sports ministry is yet to speak about the matter. India is the third highest drug-test defaulting country, along with junior level athletes.

What's next?

While NADA is still probing into the matter, it remains to be seen whether the Sports Ministry takes any steps in this regard.

Author's take

As the Khelo India Games were launched by the Prime Minister, there should be more awareness about drugs banned by the authorities. The Sports Ministry must take action so that none of this happens in the future. Thr drugs used to enhance strength can harm the inside parts of the body.