The arch-rivals are slated to square off in the Asia Cup next month.
The Ministry unveiled the new policy with regards to India playing Pakistan in the multilateral tournaments.
“India’s approach to sports events involving Pakistan reflects its overall policy in dealing with that country,” the Sports Ministry policy said.
“In so far as bilateral sports events in each other’s country are concerned, Indian teams will not be participating in competitions in Pakistan. Nor will we permit Pakistani teams to play in India,” it added.
However, the multilateral engagements will not be impacted. "With regard to international and multilateral events, in India or abroad, we are guided by the practices of international sports bodies and the interest of our own sportspersons. It is also relevant to take into account India's emergence as a credible venue to host international sports events.
"Accordingly, Indian teams and individual players will take part in international events that also have teams or players from Pakistan. Similarly, Pakistani players and teams will be able to participate in such multilateral events hosted by India.
"To position India as a preferred destination for hosting international sporting events, the visa process for sportspersons, team officials, technical personnel, and office-bearers of International Sports Governing Bodies shall be simplified. In respect of office-bearers of International Sports Governing Bodies, a multi-entry visa shall be granted on priority basis for the duration of their official tenure, subject to a maximum period of five years. This shall facilitate their smooth movement into and within the country, in accordance with international norms. Due protocol and courtesies, as per established practice, shall be extended to the Heads of International Sports Governing Bodies during their visits to India."
The arch-rivals are slated to square off on September 14 at the Dubai International Stadium in a Group A fixture. They might face each other thrice in the continental showpiece, provided both teams make it to the Super 4s and final.
Ever since the schedule was announced last month, the BCCI has faced significant criticism for agreeing to play against Pakistan amidst the heightened tensions between two tensions since the Pahalgam terror attack and retaliatory Operation Sindoor.
The criticism intensified after the organisers of the World Championship of Legends (WCL) 2025 recently called off the game between India and Pakistan in the group stage owing to social media backlash. A day before the game, a number of former Indian cricketers pulled out, leading to the organisers taking the hard call.
India Champions then withdrew from the semi-final clash against Pakistan, giving the latter a walk-over into the final.