India will continue its ban on bilateral sporting ties with Pakistan, the country’s sports ministry says. Under the policy, Pakistani athletes are not permitted to take part in sports events organised between the two countries directly. However, India will allow Pakistani athletes to participate in multilateral competitions hosted by India, meaning events that involve multiple countries rather than only India and Pakistan. The sports ministry’s position separates bilateral fixtures from wider tournaments, indicating that India’s restrictions are limited to direct, two-country sporting engagements. Multiple outlets report that while the ban remains in place for bilateral ties, India is clearing the way for Pakistan’s participation in multi-nation events held in India. The announcement reflects the ongoing restrictions on direct sporting cooperation between the two neighbours, while still permitting participation in broader international sporting calendars when hosted by India.