Pilavullakandi Thekkeparambil Usha, popularly known as PT Usha, is one of the greatest names in Indian Olympic history. Popularly known as the 'Queen of Indian track and field', her journey from a small village in Kerala to the Upper House of Parliament is a legacy written by sweat and spirit. She announced to the sporting world that with talent and hard work, anything is achievable as long as one possesses the hunger to pursue it. Born on June 27, 1964, PT Usha hails from Meladi-Payyolia, a small village in Kerala.&nbsp;&nbsp;She grew up in a humble background and her passion for athletics was seen from an early age. At the age of 12, she received a scholarship from the Kerala government for her potential. It was during this time that coach O.M. Nambiar recognised her sprinting talent at the National School Games, a moment that changed the course of Usha's sporting journey. Interestingly, she was given the name ‘ The Payyoli Express’ as she studied in Payyoli, a small town near the Malabar coast of Kozhikode district.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/what-is-stop-clock-rule-in-test-cricket-will-it-make-the-format-interesting-icc-playing-condition-1750937637142">What is stop-clock rule in Test Cricket? Will it make the red-ball cricket interesting?</a>&nbsp;PT Usha began her international journey at the 1980 Moscow Olympics when she was just 16 years old. Although, Usha did not win a medal, she made history as the youngest Indian sprinter to compete in the Olympics. Four years later, at the 1984 Los Angeles Olympics, she narrowly missed out on a bronze medal in the 400m hurdles final, finishing just 1/100th of a second behind the third-ranked athlete, Cristina Cojocaru. However, this setback ultimately led to a remarkable comeback in her athletic career.<h2>100 medals in national and international competitions</h2>Thereafter, PT Usha went on to dominate Asian athletics. She won a gold and a silver in the 1983 Asian Championships, followed by six medals (five gold) during the next Asian Championships (1985) in Jakarta. A year later, she won four gold medals at the 1986 Seoul Asian Games. In total, she won 14 gold medals in Asian Championships and over 100 medals in national and international competitions.&nbsp;Even after retiring, Usha never stepped away from athletics. She started the Usha School of Athletics in Kerala, training young female athletes to chase their dreams.&nbsp;In 2022, PT Usha made history once again as the first woman to take charge as President of the Indian Olympic Association (IOA) and also the first Olympian to hold the top chair. A year later (2023), she was nominated to the Rajya Sabha, India’s Upper House of Parliament.&nbsp;

Happy birthday PT Usha: From Olympics to Rajya Sabha, meet the Queen of Indian track and field

Pilavullakandi Thekkeparambil Usha, popularly known as PT Usha, is one of the greatest names in Indian Olympic history. Popularly known as the 'Queen of Indian track and field', her journey from a small village in Kerala to the Upper House of Parliament is a legacy written by sweat and spirit. She announced to the sporting world that with talent and hard work, anything is achievable as long as one possesses the hunger to pursue it. Born on June 27, 1964, PT Usha hails from Meladi-Payyolia, a small village in Kerala. She grew up in a humble background and her passion for athletics was seen from an early age. At the age of 12, she received a scholarship from the Kerala government for her potential. It was during this time that coach O.M. Nambiar recognised her sprinting talent at the National School Games, a moment that changed the course of Usha's sporting journey. Interestingly, she was given the name ‘ The Payyoli Express’ as she studied in Payyoli, a small town near the Malabar coast of Kozhikode district. Also Read | What is stop-clock rule in Test Cricket? Will it make the red-ball cricket interesting? PT Usha began her international journey at the 1980 Moscow Olympics when she was just 16 years old. Although, Usha did not win a medal, she made history as the youngest Indian sprinter to compete in the Olympics. Four years later, at the 1984 Los Angeles Olympics, she narrowly missed out on a bronze medal in the 400m hurdles final, finishing just 1/100th of a second behind the third-ranked athlete, Cristina Cojocaru. However, this setback ultimately led to a remarkable comeback in her athletic career. 100 medals in national and international competitions Thereafter, PT Usha went on to dominate Asian athletics. She won a gold and a silver in the 1983 Asian Championships, followed by six medals (five gold) during the next Asian Championships (1985) in Jakarta. A year later, she won four gold medals at the 1986 Seoul Asian Games. In total, she won 14 gold medals in Asian Championships and over 100 medals in national and international competitions. Even after retiring, Usha never stepped away from athletics. She started the Usha School of Athletics in Kerala, training young female athletes to chase their dreams. In 2022, PT Usha made history once again as the first woman to take charge as President of the Indian Olympic Association (IOA) and also the first Olympian to hold the top chair. A year later (2023), she was nominated to the Rajya Sabha, India’s Upper House of Parliament.

PT Usha began her international journey at the 1980 Moscow Olympics when she was just 16 years old. Although, Usha did not win a medal, she made history as the youngest Indian sprinter to compete in the Olympics

Happy birthday PT Usha: From Olympics to Rajya Sabha, meet the queen of Indian track and field

The Indian Olympic Association (IOA) has officially submitted its bid to host the 2036 Olympics on Tuesday (Nov 5) as the nation tries to get its name on the global sports map. The bid also includes intent to host the 2036 Paralympics.&nbsp;The IOA submitted a Letter of Intent to the International Olympic Committee's (IOC) Future Host Commission on October 1. While the bidding process is yet to start, more than 10 cities have shown interest in hosting the 2036 Olympics.

<h2>India submits bid to host Olympics</h2>

"This monumental opportunity could bring substantial benefits, fostering economic growth, social progress, and youth empowerment across the country," a source told India Today.

It has not been a hidden secret that India intends to host the 2036 Olympic Games, as the IOA has been preparing for the bid for some time. In recent years, India’s bid was strengthened having hosted the International Olympic Committee (IOC) general meeting headed by Thomas Bach. India also has a strong representation on the panel, further helping its bid to host the Olympics in 2036.

As things stand, Los Angeles in the United States will host the 2028 Summer Olympics, while Brisbane in Australia will host the 2032 Games. The IOC’s rules state that no continent can host back-to-back summer Olympics, paving the way for an Asian nation to host the Games in 2036.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/gautam-gambhir-went-against-team-management-defied-rahul-dravids-pitch-theory-during-nz-series-report-773416">Gautam Gambhir went against team management, defied Rahul Dravid's 'pitch theory' during NZ Tests: Report</a>

Asia has hosted the Summer Games four times, including the 1964 Tokyo, 1988 Seoul, 2008 Beijing, and 2020 Tokyo Olympics. If successful with the bid, India could become the first nation from South Asia to host the Summer Olympics.

"India is preparing to host the 2036 Olympics. In this regard, the input from athletes who have played in previous Olympics is significant. You all must have observed and experienced many things. We want to document this and share it with the government so that we don't miss out on any small details in the preparation for 2036," PM Narendra Modi had earlier stated.

The Indian Olympic Association (IOA) has officially submitted its bid to host the 2036 Olympics on Tuesday (Nov 5) as the nation tries to get its name on the global sports map.

The Indian Olympic Association (IOA) has officially submitted its bid to host the 2036 Olympics on Tuesday (Nov 5) as the nation tries to get its name on the global sports map. The bid also includes intent to host the 2036 Paralympics. The IOA submitted a Letter of Intent to the International Olympic Committee's (IOC) Future Host Commission on October 1. While the bidding process is yet to start, more than 10 cities have shown interest in hosting the 2036 Olympics. India submits bid to host Olympics "This monumental opportunity could bring substantial benefits, fostering economic growth, social progress, and youth empowerment across the country," a source told India Today. It has not been a hidden secret that India intends to host the 2036 Olympic Games, as the IOA has been preparing for the bid for some time. In recent years, India’s bid was strengthened having hosted the International Olympic Committee (IOC) general meeting headed by Thomas Bach. India also has a strong representation on the panel, further helping its bid to host the Olympics in 2036. As things stand, Los Angeles in the United States will host the 2028 Summer Olympics, while Brisbane in Australia will host the 2032 Games. The IOC’s rules state that no continent can host back-to-back summer Olympics, paving the way for an Asian nation to host the Games in 2036. ALSO READ | Gautam Gambhir went against team management, defied Rahul Dravid's 'pitch theory' during NZ Tests: Report Asia has hosted the Summer Games four times, including the 1964 Tokyo, 1988 Seoul, 2008 Beijing, and 2020 Tokyo Olympics. If successful with the bid, India could become the first nation from South Asia to host the Summer Olympics. "India is preparing to host the 2036 Olympics. In this regard, the input from athletes who have played in previous Olympics is significant. You all must have observed and experienced many things. We want to document this and share it with the government so that we don't miss out on any small details in the preparation for 2036," PM Narendra Modi had earlier stated.

Indian Olympic Association officially submits bid for hosting 2036 Olympics

Vinesh Phogat recalled her disqualification ahead of her gold medal match in the 53kg freestyle wrestling final in the Paris Olympics and slammed Indian Olympic Association (IOA) President PT Usha for offering no support. Vinesh was disqualified before her gold medal bout for being marginally overweight. Thus, she&nbsp;was admitted to a poly-clinic in the Olympics village, where Usha visited her and was seen interacting with the Indian wrestler (who has now joined politics). However, Vinesh, in a recent interaction, claimed that Usha visited her but offered no support and even clicked a picture without informing her.

During a chat with a&nbsp;local news channel, Vinesh said, "I don't know what support I got there. PT Usha madam visited me at the hospital. One photo was clicked...Like you said, in politics a lot happens behind closed doors. Similarly, politics happened there (in Paris) as well. That's why I was heartbroken. Otherwise a lot of people are saying 'don't leave wrestling'. For what should I continue? There is politics everywhere."

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/afg-vs-nz-disgusting-picture-goes-viral-of-utensils-being-cleaned-near-urinal-at-greater-noida-stadium-757505">Afg vs NZ: DISGUSTING! Picture goes VIRAL of utensils being cleaned near urinal at Greater Noida stadium</a>

Vinesh slammed Usha for sharing the picture on social media as she feels the latter only came to 'pretend'&nbsp;support.

<h2>'That's not how you show support'</h2>

Thus, the Indian wrestler-turned-politician added, "You are on a hospital bed, where you don't know what's happening in life outside, you are going through one of the worst phases of your life. At that place, just to show everyone you are standing with me, aap bina bataye photo kheench rahe ho, fir social media pe daal ke bol rahe ho hum saath mein khade hain (clicked a photo without telling me and then putting it on social media to say you are standing with me). That's not how you show support (pretending to). What was it more than (posturing)!"

Post Vinesh's Paris Olympic heartbreak, which ended with Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) also rejecting&nbsp;her plea for a joint-silver, the 30-year-old announced her retirement from wrestling and recently joined the Indian National Congress (INC).

Vinesh Phogat recalled her disqualification ahead of her gold medal match in the 53kg freestyle wrestling final in the Paris Olympics and slammed Indian Olympic Association (IOA) President PT Usha for offering no support.

Vinesh Phogat recalled her disqualification ahead of her gold medal match in the 53kg freestyle wrestling final in the Paris Olympics and slammed Indian Olympic Association (IOA) President PT Usha for offering no support. Vinesh was disqualified before her gold medal bout for being marginally overweight. Thus, she was admitted to a poly-clinic in the Olympics village, where Usha visited her and was seen interacting with the Indian wrestler (who has now joined politics). However, Vinesh, in a recent interaction, claimed that Usha visited her but offered no support and even clicked a picture without informing her. During a chat with a local news channel, Vinesh said, "I don't know what support I got there. PT Usha madam visited me at the hospital. One photo was clicked...Like you said, in politics a lot happens behind closed doors. Similarly, politics happened there (in Paris) as well. That's why I was heartbroken. Otherwise a lot of people are saying 'don't leave wrestling'. For what should I continue? There is politics everywhere." Also read: Afg vs NZ: DISGUSTING! Picture goes VIRAL of utensils being cleaned near urinal at Greater Noida stadium Vinesh slammed Usha for sharing the picture on social media as she feels the latter only came to 'pretend' support. 'That's not how you show support' Thus, the Indian wrestler-turned-politician added, "You are on a hospital bed, where you don't know what's happening in life outside, you are going through one of the worst phases of your life. At that place, just to show everyone you are standing with me, aap bina bataye photo kheench rahe ho, fir social media pe daal ke bol rahe ho hum saath mein khade hain (clicked a photo without telling me and then putting it on social media to say you are standing with me). That's not how you show support (pretending to). What was it more than (posturing)!" Post Vinesh's Paris Olympic heartbreak, which ended with Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) also rejecting her plea for a joint-silver, the 30-year-old announced her retirement from wrestling and recently joined the Indian National Congress (INC).

One photo was clicked without informing, politics happened: Vinesh Phogat RIPS APART IOA President PT Usha

The Indian contingent for&nbsp;Paris Olympics 2024 has been approved by the sports ministry. As many as 117 athletes will be travelling to Paris for the showpiece event, which kicks off on July 26. In addition, the athletes will be accompanied by 140 support staff and officials. Among the support staff, 72 personnel have been granted government funding to cater to the needs of the participating sportspersons. Among the list, a notable absentee was shot putter Abha Kathua, who gained&nbsp;qualification for&nbsp;Paris Olympics through&nbsp;world ranking quota.

A letter from the ministry to the Indian Olympic Association President P.T. Usha read, "The permissible limit for the stay of support personnel in the Games Village against accreditation as per norms of the Paris Organising Committee for the 2024 Olympic Games is 67, including 11 1OA Contingent Officials, which includes five Medical Team Members."

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/paris-olympics-2024-french-charity-warns-athletes-of-air-pollution-at-olympic-village-741513">Paris Olympics 2024: French charity warns athletes of 'air pollution' at Olympic village</a>

It further added, "For catering to the requirements of the athletes, additional coaches and other support staff numbering 72 have been approved at cost to the Government and arrangements for their stay have been made in Hotels/in locations outside the Games Village."

All eyes will be on the likes of javelin star Neeraj Chopra, badminton superstars PV Sindhu, Chirag Shetty-Satwiksairaj Rankireddy, weightlifting queen Mirabai Chanu, the hockey teams, etc. to bring glory to the country.

Notably, Tokyo Olympics, in 2020, was a highly-successful campaign for Team&nbsp;India. A 119-member contingent&nbsp;returned with the best-ever haul of seven medals. The whole country will be hoping for the Indian contingent to double their tally this time around.

The Indian contingent for Paris Olympics 2024 has been approved by the sports ministry. As many as 117 athletes will be travelling to Paris for the showpiece event, which kicks off on July 26.

The Indian contingent for Paris Olympics 2024 has been approved by the sports ministry. As many as 117 athletes will be travelling to Paris for the showpiece event, which kicks off on July 26. In addition, the athletes will be accompanied by 140 support staff and officials. Among the support staff, 72 personnel have been granted government funding to cater to the needs of the participating sportspersons. Among the list, a notable absentee was shot putter Abha Kathua, who gained qualification for Paris Olympics through world ranking quota. A letter from the ministry to the Indian Olympic Association President P.T. Usha read, "The permissible limit for the stay of support personnel in the Games Village against accreditation as per norms of the Paris Organising Committee for the 2024 Olympic Games is 67, including 11 1OA Contingent Officials, which includes five Medical Team Members." Also read: Paris Olympics 2024: French charity warns athletes of 'air pollution' at Olympic village It further added, "For catering to the requirements of the athletes, additional coaches and other support staff numbering 72 have been approved at cost to the Government and arrangements for their stay have been made in Hotels/in locations outside the Games Village." All eyes will be on the likes of javelin star Neeraj Chopra, badminton superstars PV Sindhu, Chirag Shetty-Satwiksairaj Rankireddy, weightlifting queen Mirabai Chanu, the hockey teams, etc. to bring glory to the country. Notably, Tokyo Olympics, in 2020, was a highly-successful campaign for Team India. A 119-member contingent returned with the best-ever haul of seven medals. The whole country will be hoping for the Indian contingent to double their tally this time around.

Paris Olympics 2024: IOA releases list of 117 athletes and 140 support staff for mega event

On Monday (March 18), the Indian Olympic Association abolished the wrestling ad-hoc committee, stating that 'there is no more need' for it to govern the sport after the national federation's ban was lifted. Notably, the IOA also made it clear that the decision was made following the successful completion of the selection trials for next month's Olympic qualifying event, for which the panel worked closely with the WFI.

The IOA felt it was not necessary to monitor WFI's activities through an ad hoc committee after WFI's ban getting lifted by the world wrestling body and the selection trials also being conducted smoothly. This, in turn, is a&nbsp;significant move as it indicates the return of&nbsp;normalcy and stability for Indian wrestling, enabling the WFI to resume its operations under its regular governance structure.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/uncapped-keeper-jaker-ali-hospitalised-as-multiple-injuries-headline-3rd-odi-between-bangladesh-and-sri-lanka-701511">Uncapped keeper Jaker Ali hospitalised as multiple injuries headline 3rd ODI between Bangladesh and Sri Lanka</a>

It is to be noted that the ad hoc committee was formed in December last year after the sports ministry suspended the WFI&nbsp;after&nbsp;Sanjay Singh -- the then newly-elected chief&nbsp;-- announced, in December,&nbsp;that the U-15 and U-20 nationals would be held&nbsp;in Uttar Pradesh's&nbsp;Nandini Nagar, Gonda before the year end. 
 
The Sports Ministry claimed the announcement was against the the rules and regulations as a 15-day notice is needed for&nbsp;the&nbsp;players to prepare. Hence, it&nbsp;criticised the hasty decision-making, questioning its functioning and integrity.

This led to constitution of the ad hoc committee -- chaired by Bhupender Singh Bajwa -- on December 23 following allegations that the newly elected WFI, led by Sanjay (who replaced Brij Bhushan Singh&nbsp;accused of sexual assault by young females), violated its own regulations.

On Monday (March 18), the Indian Olympic Association abolished the wrestling ad-hoc committee, stating that 'there is no more need' for it to govern the sport after the national federation's ban was lifted.

On Monday (March 18), the Indian Olympic Association abolished the wrestling ad-hoc committee, stating that 'there is no more need' for it to govern the sport after the national federation's ban was lifted. Notably, the IOA also made it clear that the decision was made following the successful completion of the selection trials for next month's Olympic qualifying event, for which the panel worked closely with the WFI. The IOA felt it was not necessary to monitor WFI's activities through an ad hoc committee after WFI's ban getting lifted by the world wrestling body and the selection trials also being conducted smoothly. This, in turn, is a significant move as it indicates the return of normalcy and stability for Indian wrestling, enabling the WFI to resume its operations under its regular governance structure. Also read: Uncapped keeper Jaker Ali hospitalised as multiple injuries headline 3rd ODI between Bangladesh and Sri Lanka It is to be noted that the ad hoc committee was formed in December last year after the sports ministry suspended the WFI after Sanjay Singh -- the then newly-elected chief -- announced, in December, that the U-15 and U-20 nationals would be held in Uttar Pradesh's Nandini Nagar, Gonda before the year end. The Sports Ministry claimed the announcement was against the the rules and regulations as a 15-day notice is needed for the players to prepare. Hence, it criticised the hasty decision-making, questioning its functioning and integrity. This led to constitution of the ad hoc committee -- chaired by Bhupender Singh Bajwa -- on December 23 following allegations that the newly elected WFI, led by Sanjay (who replaced Brij Bhushan Singh accused of sexual assault by young females), violated its own regulations.

Wrestling: WFI set to take over after IOA dissolves ad-hoc committee

The Indian Olympic Association (IOA) on Wednesday (Dec 27) appointed a three-member committee to run the operations of the Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) after its new body was suspended by the Sports Ministry. The new body of the WFI came into power on December 21 when Sanjay Singh, a close aide of former chief Brij Bhushan Singh Sharan was elected as the president. However, the Sports Ministry of India then suspended the newly elected body on the grounds of a hasty announcement on Sunday. Bhupendra Singh Bajwa has been appointed as the Chairman, MM Somaya as a member, and Manjusha Kanwar as another member of the ad-hoc committee.

<h2>IOA in action</h2>

After a big backlash from wrestlers, the IOA has acted swiftly and have appointed a committee that will look after the day-to-day activities of the WFI. It is anticipated that WFI elections could be held again after the Supreme Court’s order which could be challenged by the newly-elected committee. Wrestlers like Bajrang Punia, Vinesh Phogat and Sakshi Malik have already taken their stand against the newly-elected committee by either returning their national honours or retiring from the sport.

<h2>What was the case?</h2>

The new WFI chief, Sanjay Singh, a close aide of former President Brij Bhushan Singh, saw off competition from Anita Sheoran to win the top post on Thursday. In protest, Bajrang&nbsp;decided to return his Padma Shri honour as he did not support newly elected member Sanjay Singh. On Friday, he tweeted about returning the honour in a mark of protest against the new panel.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ive-been-blocked-from-everywhere-shikhar-dhawans-teary-eyed-birthday-post-for-son-zoravar-673942">‘I’ve been blocked from everywhere…’ - Shikhar Dhawan's teary-eyed birthday post for son Zoravar</a>

With the vote counting taking place immediately in the aftermath of the elections last Thursday, Sanjay Singh gained 40 votes out of 47 to succeed&nbsp;Brij Bhushan.

<h2>Year of chaos for WFI</h2>

The protests had begun in January 2023 by top wrestlers like Bajrang Punia, Sakshi Malik, Vinesh Phogat and others in the epicenter. The cluster of top wrestlers wanted then-President Brij Bhushan to be thrown out of power for sexual harassment charges against him. The protests were first held at the iconic Jantar Mantar in New Delhi while the attention then switched to the holy city of Haridwar (210 km North of New Delhi). Protesters even protested in New Delhi during the inauguration of the new parliament building of India on May 28.

The Indian Olympic Association (IOA) on Wednesday (Dec 27) appointed a three-member committee to run the operations of the Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) after its new body was suspended by the Sports Ministry.

The Indian Olympic Association (IOA) on Wednesday (Dec 27) appointed a three-member committee to run the operations of the Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) after its new body was suspended by the Sports Ministry. The new body of the WFI came into power on December 21 when Sanjay Singh, a close aide of former chief Brij Bhushan Singh Sharan was elected as the president. However, the Sports Ministry of India then suspended the newly elected body on the grounds of a hasty announcement on Sunday. Bhupendra Singh Bajwa has been appointed as the Chairman, MM Somaya as a member, and Manjusha Kanwar as another member of the ad-hoc committee. IOA in action After a big backlash from wrestlers, the IOA has acted swiftly and have appointed a committee that will look after the day-to-day activities of the WFI. It is anticipated that WFI elections could be held again after the Supreme Court’s order which could be challenged by the newly-elected committee. Wrestlers like Bajrang Punia, Vinesh Phogat and Sakshi Malik have already taken their stand against the newly-elected committee by either returning their national honours or retiring from the sport. What was the case? The new WFI chief, Sanjay Singh, a close aide of former President Brij Bhushan Singh, saw off competition from Anita Sheoran to win the top post on Thursday. In protest, Bajrang decided to return his Padma Shri honour as he did not support newly elected member Sanjay Singh. On Friday, he tweeted about returning the honour in a mark of protest against the new panel. ALSO READ | ‘I’ve been blocked from everywhere…’ - Shikhar Dhawan's teary-eyed birthday post for son Zoravar With the vote counting taking place immediately in the aftermath of the elections last Thursday, Sanjay Singh gained 40 votes out of 47 to succeed Brij Bhushan. Year of chaos for WFI The protests had begun in January 2023 by top wrestlers like Bajrang Punia, Sakshi Malik, Vinesh Phogat and others in the epicenter. The cluster of top wrestlers wanted then-President Brij Bhushan to be thrown out of power for sexual harassment charges against him. The protests were first held at the iconic Jantar Mantar in New Delhi while the attention then switched to the holy city of Haridwar (210 km North of New Delhi). Protesters even protested in New Delhi during the inauguration of the new parliament building of India on May 28.

Bhupendra Singh Bajwa to lead three-member IOA committee to run WFI operations

The Indian Olympic Association (IOA) president PT Usha said on Thursday that the wrestlers should have approached the IOA earlier instead of going out in the streets against the Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) and its president Brijbhushan Sharan Singh, who the wrestlers accused of sexual harassment and mismanagement of athletes.

"Indian Olympic Association (IOA) is having a committee for sexual harassment, instead of going to the streets they (protesting wrestlers) could have come to us earlier but they did not come to IOA. It is not good for sports not only for wrestlers, they should also have some discipline," said Usha to the media. Ace Indian grapplers such as Vinesh Phogat, Sakshi Malik, Bajrang Punia, and many other wrestlers are involved in the protest against the WFI chief.

Olympic gold medalist Abhinav Bindra supported the wrestlers in their protest with a poignant tweet on Wednesday.

"As athletes, we train hard every day to represent our country on the international stage. It is deeply concerning to see our athletes finding it necessary to protest on the streets regarding the allegations of harassment in the Indian wrestling administration," Bindra tweeted.

"My heart goes out to all those who have been affected. We must ensure that this issue is handled properly, with the athletes' concerns heard and addressed fairly and independently. This incident highlights the crucial need for a proper safeguarding mechanism that can prevent harassment and ensure justice for those affected. We must work towards creating a safe and secure environment for all athletes to thrive in," he added.

Over the previous four days, the wrestlers have slept and trained at the protest location.

On Wednesday, grapplers held a candle march at Jantar Mantar in the national capital as they continue their protest against the Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) and its president Brijbhushan Sharan Singh. Vinesh Phoghat, Bajrang Punia and Sakshi Malik were present in the candle march.

While talking to the media, Sakshi Malik said, "We urge PM Modi to listen to our Mann Ki Baat. Even Smriti Irani ji is not listening to us. We are trying to show them the light through this candle march," said Sakshee to the media.

The wrestler said that no FIR had been filed after the wrestlers registered a complaint against the WFI and its chief on Friday.

"We trust Supreme Court that it will give us justice," said Sakshi Malik.

Delhi Police on Wednesday submitted before the Supreme Court that a preliminary inquiry would be needed before lodging an FIR against WFI president Brij Bhushan Singh over allegations of sexual harassment. Delhi Police apprised the court that the police felt that there were some issues that needed preliminary inquiry. However, Delhi Police clarified that it has no hesitation to lodge FIR immediately if the court orders.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/bcci-reveals-annual-player-retainership-for-womens-team-harmanpreet-mandhana-retain-grade-a-category-586612">BCCI reveals Annual Player Retainership for women's team, Harmanpreet, Mandhana retain Grade A category</a>

A bench headed by Chief Justice of India DY Chandrachud said that the matter is scheduled to be heard on Friday and the bench will look at the entire material. On Tuesday, the Supreme Court issued notice to Delhi Police on the wrestler's plea seeking an urgent hearing on a petition seeking registration of FIR against WFI president Brij Bhushan.

The court noted that there are serious allegations in the petition by wrestlers who have represented India.

It was announced on Monday by the Union Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports announced on Monday that the Indian Olympic Association (IOA) will be forming an ad-hoc committee to conduct the elections for the Executive Committee of the Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) within 45 days of its formation, to manage day-to-day affairs of the body, including the selection of athletes and making entries for the participation of players in international events.

This committee will be functioning for an interim period till a new Executive Committee takes charge.

After a protest led by some prominent wrestlers of the country started this January, the Union Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports had announced the formation of an 'oversight committee' to probe allegations levelled against the WFI and its chief Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh and other coaches.

The committee was tasked with submitting a report on the issue to the ministry.&nbsp;

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

&nbsp;

You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

The Indian Olympic Association (IOA) president PT Usha said on Thursday that the wrestlers should have approached the IOA earlier instead of going out in the streets against the Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) and its president Brijbhushan Sharan Singh, who the wrestlers accused of sexual harassment and mismanagement of athletes.

The Indian Olympic Association (IOA) president PT Usha said on Thursday that the wrestlers should have approached the IOA earlier instead of going out in the streets against the Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) and its president Brijbhushan Sharan Singh, who the wrestlers accused of sexual harassment and mismanagement of athletes. "Indian Olympic Association (IOA) is having a committee for sexual harassment, instead of going to the streets they (protesting wrestlers) could have come to us earlier but they did not come to IOA. It is not good for sports not only for wrestlers, they should also have some discipline," said Usha to the media. Ace Indian grapplers such as Vinesh Phogat, Sakshi Malik, Bajrang Punia, and many other wrestlers are involved in the protest against the WFI chief. Olympic gold medalist Abhinav Bindra supported the wrestlers in their protest with a poignant tweet on Wednesday. "As athletes, we train hard every day to represent our country on the international stage. It is deeply concerning to see our athletes finding it necessary to protest on the streets regarding the allegations of harassment in the Indian wrestling administration," Bindra tweeted. "My heart goes out to all those who have been affected. We must ensure that this issue is handled properly, with the athletes' concerns heard and addressed fairly and independently. This incident highlights the crucial need for a proper safeguarding mechanism that can prevent harassment and ensure justice for those affected. We must work towards creating a safe and secure environment for all athletes to thrive in," he added. Over the previous four days, the wrestlers have slept and trained at the protest location. On Wednesday, grapplers held a candle march at Jantar Mantar in the national capital as they continue their protest against the Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) and its president Brijbhushan Sharan Singh. Vinesh Phoghat, Bajrang Punia and Sakshi Malik were present in the candle march. While talking to the media, Sakshi Malik said, "We urge PM Modi to listen to our Mann Ki Baat. Even Smriti Irani ji is not listening to us. We are trying to show them the light through this candle march," said Sakshee to the media. The wrestler said that no FIR had been filed after the wrestlers registered a complaint against the WFI and its chief on Friday. "We trust Supreme Court that it will give us justice," said Sakshi Malik. Delhi Police on Wednesday submitted before the Supreme Court that a preliminary inquiry would be needed before lodging an FIR against WFI president Brij Bhushan Singh over allegations of sexual harassment. Delhi Police apprised the court that the police felt that there were some issues that needed preliminary inquiry. However, Delhi Police clarified that it has no hesitation to lodge FIR immediately if the court orders. ALSO READ | BCCI reveals Annual Player Retainership for women's team, Harmanpreet, Mandhana retain Grade A category A bench headed by Chief Justice of India DY Chandrachud said that the matter is scheduled to be heard on Friday and the bench will look at the entire material. On Tuesday, the Supreme Court issued notice to Delhi Police on the wrestler's plea seeking an urgent hearing on a petition seeking registration of FIR against WFI president Brij Bhushan. The court noted that there are serious allegations in the petition by wrestlers who have represented India. It was announced on Monday by the Union Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports announced on Monday that the Indian Olympic Association (IOA) will be forming an ad-hoc committee to conduct the elections for the Executive Committee of the Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) within 45 days of its formation, to manage day-to-day affairs of the body, including the selection of athletes and making entries for the participation of players in international events. This committee will be functioning for an interim period till a new Executive Committee takes charge. After a protest led by some prominent wrestlers of the country started this January, the Union Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports had announced the formation of an 'oversight committee' to probe allegations levelled against the WFI and its chief Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh and other coaches. The committee was tasked with submitting a report on the issue to the ministry. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

'Wrestlers should have come to us instead of going out in streets' - IOA president PT Usha

The Union Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports announced on Monday that the Indian Olympic Association (IOA) will be forming an ad-hoc committee to conduct the elections for the Executive Committee of the Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) within 45 days of its formation, to manage day-to-day affairs of the body, including the selection of athletes and making entries for the participation of players in international events.

This committee will be functioning for an interim period till a new Executive Committee takes charge. A letter from the Sports Ministry, the Under Secretary to the Centre, said, "I am directed to say that the Ministry, vide order dated 23 January 2023, has appointed an Oversight Committee (OC) for the Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) after allegations made by certain prominent athletes against the President, Officials and some coaches of the Federation for sexual harassment, as also regarding financial mismanagement and arbitrariness in the Functioning of the Federation."

The letter pointed out that the oversight committee has submitted its report to the Sports Ministry and is currently under examination. The preliminary scrutiny of the report has resulted in the following major findings:

-Absence of a duly constituted Internal Complaints Committee under the Prevention of Sexual Harassment Act, 2013, and lack of an adequate mechanism for awareness building among sportspersons, for grievance redressal, etc.

-Need for more transparency and consultation between the Federation and stakeholders, including the sportspersons

-Need for effective communication between the Federation and the sportspersons.

"It may also be noted that after the submission of the report, the OC has ceased to exist," added the letter.

The ministry in its letter declared the WFI elections, scheduled to be held on May 7 as per media reports and a notice by WFI on its website as "null and void", calling for new elections under a neutral body/returning officer.

"Meanwhile, based on the reports in media, and from the notice dated 16.04.2023 posted on the official website of the WFI. it is understood that the election to the EC has been scheduled on May 7, 2023. In this regard, considering the current situation, it is expedient that the said election process should be treated as null and void, and that fresh elections to the EC should be conducted under a neutral body/Returning Officer," said the letter.

"Since Wrestling is an Olympic Sport and WFI is an affiliate member of the Indian Olympic Association (IOA) and taking note of the current situation of administrative void in WFI, it becomes incumbent on part of the IOA to make suitable interim arrangements for managing WFI so that sportspersons of wrestling discipline do not suffer in any manner."

"In light of the aforementioned, it is requested that a transitory committee or Ad-Hoc Committee may be constituted by the IOA to conduct the election of the Executive Committee of the WA within 45 days of its formation and, to manage the affairs of WFI, including the selection of athletes and making of entries for the participation of sportspersons in international events, for the interim period till the newly elected Executive Committee takes charge," concluded the letter.

Notably, Delhi Police on Monday sought a report from the investigation committee set up by the Union Sports Ministry to investigate the allegations against Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) chief Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh and has begun a probe into the fresh complaint by wrestlers, a senior officer said on Monday.

"A report has been sought from the probe committee and after that, the investigation can get a direction. Seven players had filed a complaint against the WFI chief. Many facts will come to the fore after getting the report of the committee," said the Delhi Police official.

After a protest led by some prominent wrestlers of the country this January, the Union Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports had announced the formation of an 'oversight committee' to probe allegations levelled against the WFI and its chief Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh and other coaches.

The committee was tasked with submitting a report on the issue to the ministry.

Top wrestlers have now resumed their sit-in protest at Jantar Mantar here in the national capital after filing a complaint at the Connaught Place police station on Friday (April 21) stating that seven female wrestlers, including one minor, were harassed and exploited by Brij Bhushan in his capacity as WFI chief.

Olympic medalist Bajrang Punia said that this time "all parties are welcome" to join them and they won't back down till action is taken against the BJP MP.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2023-csk-skipper-ms-dhoni-makes-big-farewell-statement-after-win-vs-kkr-585540">IPL 2023: CSK skipper MS Dhoni makes big FAREWELL statement after win vs KKR</a>

"It's been more than 48 hours since the complaint was made, but an FIR has not been filed yet," Punia told ANI.

The ace wrestler said that this time they will not turn down anyone, and whoever wants to support their protest could come and join them.

"...This time, all parties are welcome to join our protest whether it is BJP, Congress, AAP or any other party.....we're not affiliated with any party...," he said.

Delhi Commission For Women (DCW) has issued a notice to Delhi Police to register an FIR on the issue.

Top Indian wrestlers, including Bajrang Punia, Vinesh Phogat, Ravi Dahiya, and Sakshi Malik, held a sit-in protest in Jantar Mantar in January this year, demanding that Brij Bhushan be removed from the head office and the Wrestling Federation of India be disbanded.

They had accused the WFI body and its chief of sexual harassment and mistreatment of wrestlers.

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

&nbsp;

You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

The Union Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports announced on Monday that the Indian Olympic Association (IOA) will be forming an ad-hoc committee to conduct the elections for the Executive Committee of the Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) within 45 days of its formation, to manage day-to-day affairs of the body, including the selection of athletes and making entries for the participation of players in international events.

The Union Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports announced on Monday that the Indian Olympic Association (IOA) will be forming an ad-hoc committee to conduct the elections for the Executive Committee of the Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) within 45 days of its formation, to manage day-to-day affairs of the body, including the selection of athletes and making entries for the participation of players in international events. This committee will be functioning for an interim period till a new Executive Committee takes charge. A letter from the Sports Ministry, the Under Secretary to the Centre, said, "I am directed to say that the Ministry, vide order dated 23 January 2023, has appointed an Oversight Committee (OC) for the Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) after allegations made by certain prominent athletes against the President, Officials and some coaches of the Federation for sexual harassment, as also regarding financial mismanagement and arbitrariness in the Functioning of the Federation." The letter pointed out that the oversight committee has submitted its report to the Sports Ministry and is currently under examination. The preliminary scrutiny of the report has resulted in the following major findings: -Absence of a duly constituted Internal Complaints Committee under the Prevention of Sexual Harassment Act, 2013, and lack of an adequate mechanism for awareness building among sportspersons, for grievance redressal, etc. -Need for more transparency and consultation between the Federation and stakeholders, including the sportspersons -Need for effective communication between the Federation and the sportspersons. "It may also be noted that after the submission of the report, the OC has ceased to exist," added the letter. The ministry in its letter declared the WFI elections, scheduled to be held on May 7 as per media reports and a notice by WFI on its website as "null and void", calling for new elections under a neutral body/returning officer. "Meanwhile, based on the reports in media, and from the notice dated 16.04.2023 posted on the official website of the WFI. it is understood that the election to the EC has been scheduled on May 7, 2023. In this regard, considering the current situation, it is expedient that the said election process should be treated as null and void, and that fresh elections to the EC should be conducted under a neutral body/Returning Officer," said the letter. "Since Wrestling is an Olympic Sport and WFI is an affiliate member of the Indian Olympic Association (IOA) and taking note of the current situation of administrative void in WFI, it becomes incumbent on part of the IOA to make suitable interim arrangements for managing WFI so that sportspersons of wrestling discipline do not suffer in any manner." "In light of the aforementioned, it is requested that a transitory committee or Ad-Hoc Committee may be constituted by the IOA to conduct the election of the Executive Committee of the WA within 45 days of its formation and, to manage the affairs of WFI, including the selection of athletes and making of entries for the participation of sportspersons in international events, for the interim period till the newly elected Executive Committee takes charge," concluded the letter. Notably, Delhi Police on Monday sought a report from the investigation committee set up by the Union Sports Ministry to investigate the allegations against Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) chief Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh and has begun a probe into the fresh complaint by wrestlers, a senior officer said on Monday. "A report has been sought from the probe committee and after that, the investigation can get a direction. Seven players had filed a complaint against the WFI chief. Many facts will come to the fore after getting the report of the committee," said the Delhi Police official. After a protest led by some prominent wrestlers of the country this January, the Union Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports had announced the formation of an 'oversight committee' to probe allegations levelled against the WFI and its chief Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh and other coaches. The committee was tasked with submitting a report on the issue to the ministry. Top wrestlers have now resumed their sit-in protest at Jantar Mantar here in the national capital after filing a complaint at the Connaught Place police station on Friday (April 21) stating that seven female wrestlers, including one minor, were harassed and exploited by Brij Bhushan in his capacity as WFI chief. Olympic medalist Bajrang Punia said that this time "all parties are welcome" to join them and they won't back down till action is taken against the BJP MP. ALSO READ | IPL 2023: CSK skipper MS Dhoni makes big FAREWELL statement after win vs KKR "It's been more than 48 hours since the complaint was made, but an FIR has not been filed yet," Punia told ANI. The ace wrestler said that this time they will not turn down anyone, and whoever wants to support their protest could come and join them. "...This time, all parties are welcome to join our protest whether it is BJP, Congress, AAP or any other party.....we're not affiliated with any party...," he said. Delhi Commission For Women (DCW) has issued a notice to Delhi Police to register an FIR on the issue. Top Indian wrestlers, including Bajrang Punia, Vinesh Phogat, Ravi Dahiya, and Sakshi Malik, held a sit-in protest in Jantar Mantar in January this year, demanding that Brij Bhushan be removed from the head office and the Wrestling Federation of India be disbanded. They had accused the WFI body and its chief of sexual harassment and mistreatment of wrestlers. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

India wrestler protest row: Panel to hold sporting body WFI's top election in 45 days, says govt

Wrestlers Vinesh Phogat, Bajrang Punia, Sakshi Malik, Ravi Dahiya and Deepak Punia on Friday wrote to PT Usha, President of the Indian Olympic Association on "sexual harassment" complaints against Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) president&nbsp;Brij Bhushan Saran Singh. In a letter to the IOA President Usha, the star grapplers accused the WFI chief&nbsp;of sexual exploitation and financial irregularities. The letter signed by Bajrang Punia, Phogat, Malik, and Dahiya&nbsp;demands the resignation of the WFI chief and the formation of an inquiry committee on the allegations of sexual harassment.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<a href="https://twitter.com/PMOIndia?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@PMOIndia</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/AmitShah?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@AmitShah</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/ianuragthakur?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ianuragthakur</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/PTUshaOfficial?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@PTUshaOfficial</a> <a href="https://t.co/PwhJjlawPg">pic.twitter.com/PwhJjlawPg</a>
— Vinesh Phogat (@Phogat_Vinesh) <a href="https://twitter.com/Phogat_Vinesh/status/1616326321180938240?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 20, 2023</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

On Thursday, several ace wrestlers of the country including Phogat, Mallik and Bajrang Punia participated in the sit-in protest at Jantar Mantar in the national capital, which began on Wednesday. The wrestlers have levelled charges of sexual harassment of women wrestlers by the WFI president and coaches and of mismanagement in the functioning of the federation. They demanded a complete overhaul of the federation.

Indian wrestler and Commonwealth Games medalist&nbsp;Vinesh Phogat on the first day of protest on Wednesday alleged that coaches who are favourites of the Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) misbehave with women and harass them. She also accused the wrestling federation chief Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh of sexually harassing girls and calling her a ‘khota sikka’ after her defeat at Tokyo Olympics 2020.

On the sidelines of a sit-in protest against the WFI near Delhi`s Jantar Mantar, Phogat on Wednesday said, "Coaches are harassing women and some coaches, who are favourites of the federation, misbehave with women coaches as well. They sexually harass girls. The WFI president has sexually harassed many girls."

However, the WFI chief refuted the charges of sexual assault allegations made by the wrestlers against him. Denying the sexual assault claims by the wrestlers, Singh said, "I read that the name of the chief coach has also been taken in sexual assault allegations. I also read that the reason for the players` camp being held in Lucknow is so that they can be called at my home. I do have a home in Lucknow but I hardly reside there. My home is 120-130km&nbsp;away from Lucknow. All the sexual harassment allegations are false and I will commit suicide if they are found to be true. I tried to get in touch with the wrestlers, including Bajrang Punia but was unable to do so."

Meanwhile, some wrestlers also had a meeting with Union Sports Minister Anurag Thakur late last night on the issue that stretched into the early hours of Friday. Later in the day, under pressure to resign from his position over allegations of sexual exploitation of women wrestlers, WFI chairman Singh said he will "expose" the "political conspiracy" on Friday afternoon in a press conference.

Singh, who is also a BJP Lok Sabha MP from Kaiserganj in Uttar Pradesh, in a Facebook post said that he will hold a press conference at the Wrestling Training Centre in Nawabganj in Gonda district of the state. 
&nbsp;

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

Wrestlers Vinesh Phogat, Bajrang Punia, Sakshi Malik, Ravi Dahiya and Deepak Punia on Friday wrote to PT Usha, President of the Indian Olympic Association on "sexual harassment" complaints against Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) president Brij Bhushan Saran Singh.

Wrestlers Vinesh Phogat, Bajrang Punia, Sakshi Malik, Ravi Dahiya and Deepak Punia on Friday wrote to PT Usha, President of the Indian Olympic Association on "sexual harassment" complaints against Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) president Brij Bhushan Saran Singh. In a letter to the IOA President Usha, the star grapplers accused the WFI chief of sexual exploitation and financial irregularities. The letter signed by Bajrang Punia, Phogat, Malik, and Dahiya demands the resignation of the WFI chief and the formation of an inquiry committee on the allegations of sexual harassment. @PMOIndia @AmitShah @ianuragthakur @PTUshaOfficial pic.twitter.com/PwhJjlawPg — Vinesh Phogat (@Phogat_Vinesh) January 20, 2023 × On Thursday, several ace wrestlers of the country including Phogat, Mallik and Bajrang Punia participated in the sit-in protest at Jantar Mantar in the national capital, which began on Wednesday. The wrestlers have levelled charges of sexual harassment of women wrestlers by the WFI president and coaches and of mismanagement in the functioning of the federation. They demanded a complete overhaul of the federation. Indian wrestler and Commonwealth Games medalist Vinesh Phogat on the first day of protest on Wednesday alleged that coaches who are favourites of the Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) misbehave with women and harass them. She also accused the wrestling federation chief Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh of sexually harassing girls and calling her a ‘khota sikka’ after her defeat at Tokyo Olympics 2020. On the sidelines of a sit-in protest against the WFI near Delhi`s Jantar Mantar, Phogat on Wednesday said, "Coaches are harassing women and some coaches, who are favourites of the federation, misbehave with women coaches as well. They sexually harass girls. The WFI president has sexually harassed many girls." However, the WFI chief refuted the charges of sexual assault allegations made by the wrestlers against him. Denying the sexual assault claims by the wrestlers, Singh said, "I read that the name of the chief coach has also been taken in sexual assault allegations. I also read that the reason for the players` camp being held in Lucknow is so that they can be called at my home. I do have a home in Lucknow but I hardly reside there. My home is 120-130km away from Lucknow. All the sexual harassment allegations are false and I will commit suicide if they are found to be true. I tried to get in touch with the wrestlers, including Bajrang Punia but was unable to do so." Meanwhile, some wrestlers also had a meeting with Union Sports Minister Anurag Thakur late last night on the issue that stretched into the early hours of Friday. Later in the day, under pressure to resign from his position over allegations of sexual exploitation of women wrestlers, WFI chairman Singh said he will "expose" the "political conspiracy" on Friday afternoon in a press conference. Singh, who is also a BJP Lok Sabha MP from Kaiserganj in Uttar Pradesh, in a Facebook post said that he will hold a press conference at the Wrestling Training Centre in Nawabganj in Gonda district of the state. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Wrestlers write to IOA chief PT Usha over harassment charges against WFI's Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh

Another Indian sports body is in danger of being banned. The Indian Olympic Association has been placed under a committee of administrators by the Delhi high court.

Delhi High Court appoints three-member COA to take over IOA

The Indian Olympic Association on Saturday announced a 322-strong contingent including 215 athletes and 107 officials and support staff for the upcoming Birmingham Commonwealth Games. The Games are scheduled to be held in British city from July 28 to August 8, and the India contingent will look to improve upon its Gold Coast 2018 CWG performance, where it finished third behind traditional powerhouses Australia and England.

Sharing his thoughts, IOA secretary general Rajeev Mehta said, "We are sending one of our strongest squads ever to the CWG and even with a strength sport for us like shooting not being there, we are confident of bettering our performance from the last edition.

"Make no mistake, the competition will be world-class and fierce but our athletes have prepared well and are fit and raring to go. We wish them all the very best."

The Games-bound Indian athletes and officials will be staying at five different "Villages" with the women's cricket team being put up in a separate facility in the Birmingham city centre.

In a press release issued by the IOA, the apex sports body's top office-bearer thanked the government for its support to the athletes and federations.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-kohli-responds-to-babar-azams-stay-strong-tweet-amid-his-lean-patch-for-team-india-497999">Virat Kohli responds to Babar Azam's tweet after Pakistan skipper lends support amid his lean patch</a>

Mehta said, "It needs to be said that the Government of India led by the Hon. Prime Minister have provided unprecedented support to Olympic sports in recent years and our best ever performance at the Olympic Games stand testimony to that.

"We remain ever grateful for the same and are sure our athletes will ensure that rich rewards are reaped for the untiring efforts put in by them, most of all the Union Sports Ministry and the Sports Authority of India."

Some prominent names in the squad include Olympic medallists Neeraj Chopra, PV Sindhu, Mirabai Chanu, Lovlina Borgohain, Bajrang Punia and Ravi Kumar Dahiya. Defending CWG champions Manika Batra, Vinesh Phogat as well as 2018 Asian Games gold medallists Tajinderpal Singh Toor, Hima Das and Amit Panghal are also part of the contingent.

Rajesh Bhandari, vice president of Boxing Federation of India (BFI), is the Chef de Mission of the squad. Team India will compete in 15 sporting disciplines as well as four disciplines in the para-sports category.

Some of the disciplines where India look to perform well include traditionally strong sports like boxing, badminton, hockey, weightlifting, women's cricket (making its debut at the CWG) and wrestling.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/singapore-open-2022-pv-sindhu-defeats-japans-saena-kawakami-to-storm-into-final-497903">Singapore Open 2022: PV Sindhu defeats Japan's Saena Kawakami to storm into final</a>

The Indian squads in athletics, cycling, swimming and table tennis are also strong and primed up for the challenge.

Various members of the squad have already reached Birmingham over the past few days, depending on their training regimes laid out by their respective coaches.

Some members are competing at various global tournaments and would reach the venue directly while the rest of the contingent will leave from New Delhi. The CWG village will officially open its doors to contingents on July 23.

The Indian Olympic Association on Saturday announced a 322-strong contingent including 215 athletes and 107 officials and support staff for the upcoming Birmingham Commonwealth Games.

The Indian Olympic Association on Saturday announced a 322-strong contingent including 215 athletes and 107 officials and support staff for the upcoming Birmingham Commonwealth Games. The Games are scheduled to be held in British city from July 28 to August 8, and the India contingent will look to improve upon its Gold Coast 2018 CWG performance, where it finished third behind traditional powerhouses Australia and England. Sharing his thoughts, IOA secretary general Rajeev Mehta said, "We are sending one of our strongest squads ever to the CWG and even with a strength sport for us like shooting not being there, we are confident of bettering our performance from the last edition. "Make no mistake, the competition will be world-class and fierce but our athletes have prepared well and are fit and raring to go. We wish them all the very best." The Games-bound Indian athletes and officials will be staying at five different "Villages" with the women's cricket team being put up in a separate facility in the Birmingham city centre. In a press release issued by the IOA, the apex sports body's top office-bearer thanked the government for its support to the athletes and federations. Also Read: Virat Kohli responds to Babar Azam's tweet after Pakistan skipper lends support amid his lean patch Mehta said, "It needs to be said that the Government of India led by the Hon. Prime Minister have provided unprecedented support to Olympic sports in recent years and our best ever performance at the Olympic Games stand testimony to that. "We remain ever grateful for the same and are sure our athletes will ensure that rich rewards are reaped for the untiring efforts put in by them, most of all the Union Sports Ministry and the Sports Authority of India." Some prominent names in the squad include Olympic medallists Neeraj Chopra, PV Sindhu, Mirabai Chanu, Lovlina Borgohain, Bajrang Punia and Ravi Kumar Dahiya. Defending CWG champions Manika Batra, Vinesh Phogat as well as 2018 Asian Games gold medallists Tajinderpal Singh Toor, Hima Das and Amit Panghal are also part of the contingent. Rajesh Bhandari, vice president of Boxing Federation of India (BFI), is the Chef de Mission of the squad. Team India will compete in 15 sporting disciplines as well as four disciplines in the para-sports category. Some of the disciplines where India look to perform well include traditionally strong sports like boxing, badminton, hockey, weightlifting, women's cricket (making its debut at the CWG) and wrestling. Also Read: Singapore Open 2022: PV Sindhu defeats Japan's Saena Kawakami to storm into final The Indian squads in athletics, cycling, swimming and table tennis are also strong and primed up for the challenge. Various members of the squad have already reached Birmingham over the past few days, depending on their training regimes laid out by their respective coaches. Some members are competing at various global tournaments and would reach the venue directly while the rest of the contingent will leave from New Delhi. The CWG village will officially open its doors to contingents on July 23.

IOA announces 322-strong Indian contingent for Commonwealth Games 2022

Indian Olympic Association (IOA) on Sunday felicitated the Tokyo Olympics medalists Neeraj Chopra, Mirabai Chanu, Ravi Dahiya, PV Sindhu, Lovlina Borgohain, Bajrang Punia and the Indian men`s hockey team in Delhi.

The IOA chief Narinder Batra, Union Youth Affairs and Sports Minister Anurag Thakur, and MoS Sports Nisith Pramanik were present at the event.

"Let me first congratulate and thank all the medal winners who qualified, participated, and won the medals for India. A very big thank you to all of you. You have made India proud," Anurag Thakur said while addressing the athletes during the felicitation program.

Office of Anurag Thakur on Twitter wrote: "Union Minister @ianuragthakur felicitated Indian Olympic Medalists at a program organised by the Indian Olympic Association."

The Indian Olympic Association (IOA) awarded Olympic champion, Neeraj Chopra, with a cash award of Rs 75 lakh. Meanwhile, wrestler Ravi Dahiya and weightlifter Mirabai Chanu received Rs 50 lakh each for their silver in Tokyo.

The bronze medallists shuttler PV Sindhu, boxer Lovlina Borgohain, and wrestler Bajrang Punia received Rs 25 lakh. The bronze-medal winning men`s hockey team got Rs 10 lakh for each member. Earlier, the thirty-two Olympic winners, including javelin thrower Neeraj Chopra, India`s first-ever Gold Medallist in track and field, PV Sindhu, Mirabai Chanu along with two officials of the Sports Authority of India (SAI) attended the 75th Independence Day celebrations at Red Fort on Sunday.&nbsp;

Indian Olympic Association (IOA) on Sunday felicitated the Tokyo Olympics medalists Neeraj Chopra, Mirabai Chanu, Ravi Dahiya, PV Sindhu, Lovlina Borgohain, Bajrang Punia and the Indian men`s hockey team in Delhi.

Indian Olympic Association (IOA) on Sunday felicitated the Tokyo Olympics medalists Neeraj Chopra, Mirabai Chanu, Ravi Dahiya, PV Sindhu, Lovlina Borgohain, Bajrang Punia and the Indian men`s hockey team in Delhi. The IOA chief Narinder Batra, Union Youth Affairs and Sports Minister Anurag Thakur, and MoS Sports Nisith Pramanik were present at the event. "Let me first congratulate and thank all the medal winners who qualified, participated, and won the medals for India. A very big thank you to all of you. You have made India proud," Anurag Thakur said while addressing the athletes during the felicitation program. Office of Anurag Thakur on Twitter wrote: "Union Minister @ianuragthakur felicitated Indian Olympic Medalists at a program organised by the Indian Olympic Association." The Indian Olympic Association (IOA) awarded Olympic champion, Neeraj Chopra, with a cash award of Rs 75 lakh. Meanwhile, wrestler Ravi Dahiya and weightlifter Mirabai Chanu received Rs 50 lakh each for their silver in Tokyo. The bronze medallists shuttler PV Sindhu, boxer Lovlina Borgohain, and wrestler Bajrang Punia received Rs 25 lakh. The bronze-medal winning men`s hockey team got Rs 10 lakh for each member. Earlier, the thirty-two Olympic winners, including javelin thrower Neeraj Chopra, India`s first-ever Gold Medallist in track and field, PV Sindhu, Mirabai Chanu along with two officials of the Sports Authority of India (SAI) attended the 75th Independence Day celebrations at Red Fort on Sunday.

IOA felicitates Tokyo Olympics medal winners

Indian Olympic Association (IOC) on Saturday has announced cash prizes for coaches of Olympic medal winners. They added at Mirabai Chanu’s coach Vijay Sharma will get Rs 10 lakh after the 26-year-old weightlifter won a silver medal in Tokyo Olympics 2020.&nbsp;

IN PICS|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/sports/tokyo-olympics-2020-from-pv-sindhu-to-deepika-kumari-top-indian-athletes-to-look-out-for-400283" hreflang="en">Tokyo Olympics 2020- From PV Sindhu to Deepika Kumari: Top Indian athletes to look out for!</a>

“We have to reward the coaches also for producing Olympic medal winners. They are the ones who are guiding the athletes day in and day out. They are also working hard and making sacrifices, just like the athletes,” IOA Secretary General Rajeev Mehta said.&nbsp;

Earlier, the association announced that they would give the Tokyo Olympics gold medal winners a cash award of Rs 75 lakh apart from giving each of the participating National Sports Federations (NSFs) a bonus amount of Rs 25 lakh. The silver medal winners will be presented Rs 40 lakh, while the bronze winners will get richer by Rs 25 lakhs.

IN PICS|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/when-indias-top-guns-roared-at-the-olympics-400220" hreflang="en">When India's Top Guns roared at the Olympics</a>

Mirabai Chanu is currently India's only medal-winning athlete. India are currently 10th on the points table and are tied with Belgium, Italy, Netherlands, Romania, and Chinese Taipei.&nbsp;

China are currently on top of the medal tally with three gold medals and one bronze medal. Hosts Japan have one gold and one silver in the pocket.&nbsp;

Indian Olympic Association (IOC) on Saturday has announced cash prizes for coaches of Olympic medal winners. They added at Mirabai Chanu’s coach Vijay Sharma will get Rs 10 lakh after the 26-year-old weightlifter won a silver medal in Tokyo Olympics 2020.

Indian Olympic Association (IOC) on Saturday has announced cash prizes for coaches of Olympic medal winners. They added at Mirabai Chanu’s coach Vijay Sharma will get Rs 10 lakh after the 26-year-old weightlifter won a silver medal in Tokyo Olympics 2020. IN PICS| Tokyo Olympics 2020- From PV Sindhu to Deepika Kumari: Top Indian athletes to look out for! “We have to reward the coaches also for producing Olympic medal winners. They are the ones who are guiding the athletes day in and day out. They are also working hard and making sacrifices, just like the athletes,” IOA Secretary General Rajeev Mehta said. Earlier, the association announced that they would give the Tokyo Olympics gold medal winners a cash award of Rs 75 lakh apart from giving each of the participating National Sports Federations (NSFs) a bonus amount of Rs 25 lakh. The silver medal winners will be presented Rs 40 lakh, while the bronze winners will get richer by Rs 25 lakhs. IN PICS| When India's Top Guns roared at the Olympics Mirabai Chanu is currently India's only medal-winning athlete. India are currently 10th on the points table and are tied with Belgium, Italy, Netherlands, Romania, and Chinese Taipei. China are currently on top of the medal tally with three gold medals and one bronze medal. Hosts Japan have one gold and one silver in the pocket.

Tokyo Olympics: Indian Olympic Association announces cash rewards for coaches of medal-winners

The International Olympic Committee (IOC) on Friday cleared Narinder Batra of indulging in any wrongdoing during his election as the IOA President, rejecting the complaint of irregularity filed by the Indian body's vice-President Sudhanshu Mittal.

Mittal, who had demanded an IOC ethics commission inquiry into alleged irregularities in Batra's election in 2017, was told by the world body that it considers the matter to be closed.

"It is noted that the internal issues to which you refer were addressed and resolved prior to the elections by the NOC General Assembly, which is the NOC's supreme decision-making body and the results of the NOC's elections were not challenged," said IOC's Chief Ethics and Compliance Officer Paquerette Girard Zappelli in a letter to Mittal.

This came after Mittal shot off another mail to IOC President Thomas Bach, claiming to have evidence of "fraud, falsehood, wrongdoing, and misdeeds" by the national body's chief.

Earlier, the International Hockey Federation (FIH) also refused to take any action against Batra, who heads the body, on another complaint of irregularity filed by Mittal, stating that the incumbent did not breach the world body's statutes during his election in 2016.

"In view of this, the IOC has no reason to pursue the matter further," said Zappelli.

In a complaint, Mittal accused Batra of violating the FIH's statues by holding the post of Hockey India (HI) president when he was elected FIH head in November 2016. However, the FIH said the body did not require Batra to give up the position in India for the global post.

Batra was defended by another IOA vice-President Adille Sumariwalla, who wrote to IOC chief Thomas Bach, saying he has been deeply pained by Mittal's "baseless allegations" to "bring disrepute to an honest and hardworking President."

Bach is yet to respond to any of the mails pouring in, while Batra has claimed to be on the right side in his communication to the IOC boss.

Sumariwalla praised Batra effusively in his mail to Bach and accused Mittal of harbouring aspirations of leading the IOA by toppling the incumbent. Sumariwalla is also the President of the Athletics Federation of India.

"As the only Olympian elected to the Indian Olympic Association (IOA) as its Vice President, it pains me to see such letters of absolutely baseless allegations being circulated to the members of the IOC," he wrote.

"...Members such as Mr. Mittal, are using such tactics to promote themselves as Presidential candidates within the IOA membership, where they have no base or support. Their only aim is to bring disrepute to a honest and hardworking President, Dr Batra," he said.

"I would like to assure the President and all members of the IOC, that we the Members of the IOA have full faith and confidence in our President Dr. Narendra Dhruv Batra, whom we respect greatly and who has done yeoman service for the promotion of athletes...," he added.

He urged Bach to treat letters from Mittal with "contempt".

The International Olympic Committee (IOC) on Friday cleared Narinder Batra of indulging in any wrongdoing during his election as the IOA President, rejecting the complaint of irregularity filed by the Indian body's vice-President Sudhanshu Mittal.

The International Olympic Committee (IOC) on Friday cleared Narinder Batra of indulging in any wrongdoing during his election as the IOA President, rejecting the complaint of irregularity filed by the Indian body's vice-President Sudhanshu Mittal. Mittal, who had demanded an IOC ethics commission inquiry into alleged irregularities in Batra's election in 2017, was told by the world body that it considers the matter to be closed. "It is noted that the internal issues to which you refer were addressed and resolved prior to the elections by the NOC General Assembly, which is the NOC's supreme decision-making body and the results of the NOC's elections were not challenged," said IOC's Chief Ethics and Compliance Officer Paquerette Girard Zappelli in a letter to Mittal. This came after Mittal shot off another mail to IOC President Thomas Bach, claiming to have evidence of "fraud, falsehood, wrongdoing, and misdeeds" by the national body's chief. Earlier, the International Hockey Federation (FIH) also refused to take any action against Batra, who heads the body, on another complaint of irregularity filed by Mittal, stating that the incumbent did not breach the world body's statutes during his election in 2016. "In view of this, the IOC has no reason to pursue the matter further," said Zappelli. In a complaint, Mittal accused Batra of violating the FIH's statues by holding the post of Hockey India (HI) president when he was elected FIH head in November 2016. However, the FIH said the body did not require Batra to give up the position in India for the global post. Batra was defended by another IOA vice-President Adille Sumariwalla, who wrote to IOC chief Thomas Bach, saying he has been deeply pained by Mittal's "baseless allegations" to "bring disrepute to an honest and hardworking President." Bach is yet to respond to any of the mails pouring in, while Batra has claimed to be on the right side in his communication to the IOC boss. Sumariwalla praised Batra effusively in his mail to Bach and accused Mittal of harbouring aspirations of leading the IOA by toppling the incumbent. Sumariwalla is also the President of the Athletics Federation of India. "As the only Olympian elected to the Indian Olympic Association (IOA) as its Vice President, it pains me to see such letters of absolutely baseless allegations being circulated to the members of the IOC," he wrote. "...Members such as Mr. Mittal, are using such tactics to promote themselves as Presidential candidates within the IOA membership, where they have no base or support. Their only aim is to bring disrepute to a honest and hardworking President, Dr Batra," he said. "I would like to assure the President and all members of the IOC, that we the Members of the IOA have full faith and confidence in our President Dr. Narendra Dhruv Batra, whom we respect greatly and who has done yeoman service for the promotion of athletes...," he added. He urged Bach to treat letters from Mittal with "contempt".

War within IOA: IOC, FIH reject Mittal's charge of irregularity against Batra

An Indian Olympic Association delegation, led by Secretary General Rajeev Mehta, on Thursday handed over a cheque of Rs 2 crore to Sports Minister Kiren Rijiju, an amount raised for the PM CARES Fund to fight the COVID-19 pandemic.

The IOA delegation included Mehta, sr. Vice-president Anil Khanna, vice-president Sudhanshu Mittal, joint secretary Onkar Singh, associate vice-president Ajay Singh. The money has been raised by the IOA, the national federations and athletes.

"A delegation from the Indian Olympic Association met Union Minister of Youth Affairs and Sports Shri. Kiren Rijiju and handed over Rs 2 crore for the PM Cares Fund. The money has been raised by several federations and also individual athletes," said a press release from the Sports Ministry.

Thanking IOA for the contribution, Sports Rijiju said, "I am very happy that in these difficult times the sporting fraternity has come together and come forward to collect this money for the need of the country.

"Most sports federations in India have limited resources, but to make a contribution despite that, is commendable. The contribution will be useful in India's fight against Corona."

IOA President Narinder Batra had recently written to Rijiju seeking a package of close to Rs 220 crore for the IOA, federations and state Olympic committees to overcome the drying up of sponsorship money due to the pandemic

An Indian Olympic Association delegation, led by Secretary General Rajeev Mehta, on Thursday handed over a cheque of Rs 2 crore to Sports Minister Kiren Rijiju, an amount raised for the PM CARES Fund to fight the COVID-19 pandemic.

An Indian Olympic Association delegation, led by Secretary General Rajeev Mehta, on Thursday handed over a cheque of Rs 2 crore to Sports Minister Kiren Rijiju, an amount raised for the PM CARES Fund to fight the COVID-19 pandemic. The IOA delegation included Mehta, sr. Vice-president Anil Khanna, vice-president Sudhanshu Mittal, joint secretary Onkar Singh, associate vice-president Ajay Singh. The money has been raised by the IOA, the national federations and athletes. "A delegation from the Indian Olympic Association met Union Minister of Youth Affairs and Sports Shri. Kiren Rijiju and handed over Rs 2 crore for the PM Cares Fund. The money has been raised by several federations and also individual athletes," said a press release from the Sports Ministry. Thanking IOA for the contribution, Sports Rijiju said, "I am very happy that in these difficult times the sporting fraternity has come together and come forward to collect this money for the need of the country. "Most sports federations in India have limited resources, but to make a contribution despite that, is commendable. The contribution will be useful in India's fight against Corona." IOA President Narinder Batra had recently written to Rijiju seeking a package of close to Rs 220 crore for the IOA, federations and state Olympic committees to overcome the drying up of sponsorship money due to the pandemic

IOA hands over Rs 2 crore to Sports Minister on behalf of NSFs, athletes

The Indian Olympic Association on Wednesday decided to ask the Sports Ministry to allow national campers undergo outdoor training inside major sports centres in the country by following necessary precautions during the lockdown and after that.

All sports activities have been stopped due to COVID-19-forced nationwide lockdown which has been extended till May 3 and the athletes are barred from any outdoor training even inside their facilities. They have to follow the social distancing guidelines of the government strictly.

Campers at the NIS-Patiala had already written to the Ministry requesting to allow them outdoor training (but inside the facility) in small numbers and different timings in the day so that they can follow social distancing.

"(We will) request SAI and MYAS that there are few SAI centres such as Patiala, Bangalore etc where athletes were training prior to the lockdown. These athletes who are in these centres should be allowed to train and the athletes will respect &amp; follow all required restrictions and protocols," the IOA said.

"Similarly discussion should to be taken up with SAI and MYAS as to how other SAI centres can also be opened for other Olympic Sports by following &amp; respecting all the required restrictions and protocols," it said after a meeting of the IOA Preparations Committee.

The meeting, held via video conference under the chairmanship of Lalit Bhanot, was attended by IOA President Narinder Batra, Secretary General Rajiv Mehta and Tokyo Olympics Indian contingent Chef De Mission BP Baisya.

The meeting attended by 62 representatives from various National Sports Federations agreed that Olympic-bound athletes should train within the country till end of the year in order to avoid any risk to them.

"Both the domestic and international calendars are in shut down mode as of now for majority of the sports and such a situation is likely to carry on maybe till end of the year. Most of the international Federations also do not have any competitions lined up till end of the year.

"All further developments regarding this situation will be monitored regularly and continuously," IOA President Batra said.

The IOA also agreed that the "decisions on extension of contracts for High Performance Directors, chief/head coaches, coaches and other support staff till 2021 or 2024 needs to done on priority by SAI and the ministry for smooth handling of training for 2021 and thereafter".

"Regarding kitchen and hygiene at SAI centres, all of us respect and acknowledge that this is being monitored strictly by SAI. Our request to SAI and MYAS is that it needs to continue to be monitored, handled vigilantly and strictly.

"Due to sudden lockdown, few NSFs have their equipment (eg Sailing Federation) left outside india and assistance is required from MYAS &amp; SAI for it to be got back to India as soon as possible."

The IOA top brass also took stock of the implications of the postponement of the Tokyo Olympics to next year due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

"Indian athletes who have qualified are young in age, it will give them more time to train, gain more experience and confidence to perform better in 2021," it said as an advantage of the Games being postponed.

On the disadvantages of the postponement, it said, "Athletes who have been carrying injuries and who have already matured may find it difficult to carry on for another year under extreme conditions.

"Some Athletes have already taken maximum load to peak in 2020, they may find it difficult to sustain for another year and may risk injuries."

Target Olympic Podium Scheme CEO Rajesh Rajagopalan also took part in the virtual meeting.

More than 70 Indian athletes have so far qualified for the Tokyo Olympics, which has been rescheduled for July 23 to August 8 next year.&nbsp;

The Indian Olympic Association on Wednesday decided to ask the Sports Ministry to allow national campers undergo outdoor training inside major sports centres in the country by following necessary precautions during the lockdown and after that.

The Indian Olympic Association on Wednesday decided to ask the Sports Ministry to allow national campers undergo outdoor training inside major sports centres in the country by following necessary precautions during the lockdown and after that. All sports activities have been stopped due to COVID-19-forced nationwide lockdown which has been extended till May 3 and the athletes are barred from any outdoor training even inside their facilities. They have to follow the social distancing guidelines of the government strictly. Campers at the NIS-Patiala had already written to the Ministry requesting to allow them outdoor training (but inside the facility) in small numbers and different timings in the day so that they can follow social distancing. "(We will) request SAI and MYAS that there are few SAI centres such as Patiala, Bangalore etc where athletes were training prior to the lockdown. These athletes who are in these centres should be allowed to train and the athletes will respect & follow all required restrictions and protocols," the IOA said. "Similarly discussion should to be taken up with SAI and MYAS as to how other SAI centres can also be opened for other Olympic Sports by following & respecting all the required restrictions and protocols," it said after a meeting of the IOA Preparations Committee. The meeting, held via video conference under the chairmanship of Lalit Bhanot, was attended by IOA President Narinder Batra, Secretary General Rajiv Mehta and Tokyo Olympics Indian contingent Chef De Mission BP Baisya. The meeting attended by 62 representatives from various National Sports Federations agreed that Olympic-bound athletes should train within the country till end of the year in order to avoid any risk to them. "Both the domestic and international calendars are in shut down mode as of now for majority of the sports and such a situation is likely to carry on maybe till end of the year. Most of the international Federations also do not have any competitions lined up till end of the year. "All further developments regarding this situation will be monitored regularly and continuously," IOA President Batra said. The IOA also agreed that the "decisions on extension of contracts for High Performance Directors, chief/head coaches, coaches and other support staff till 2021 or 2024 needs to done on priority by SAI and the ministry for smooth handling of training for 2021 and thereafter". "Regarding kitchen and hygiene at SAI centres, all of us respect and acknowledge that this is being monitored strictly by SAI. Our request to SAI and MYAS is that it needs to continue to be monitored, handled vigilantly and strictly. "Due to sudden lockdown, few NSFs have their equipment (eg Sailing Federation) left outside india and assistance is required from MYAS & SAI for it to be got back to India as soon as possible." The IOA top brass also took stock of the implications of the postponement of the Tokyo Olympics to next year due to the COVID-19 pandemic. "Indian athletes who have qualified are young in age, it will give them more time to train, gain more experience and confidence to perform better in 2021," it said as an advantage of the Games being postponed. On the disadvantages of the postponement, it said, "Athletes who have been carrying injuries and who have already matured may find it difficult to carry on for another year under extreme conditions. "Some Athletes have already taken maximum load to peak in 2020, they may find it difficult to sustain for another year and may risk injuries." Target Olympic Podium Scheme CEO Rajesh Rajagopalan also took part in the virtual meeting. More than 70 Indian athletes have so far qualified for the Tokyo Olympics, which has been rescheduled for July 23 to August 8 next year.

IOA decides to ask Sports Ministry to allow national campers outdoor training inside SAI centres

The Indian Olympic Association (IOA) has helped raise Rs 71 lakh through donations from its state affiliates and National Sports Federations (NSF) as a contribution towards the country's fight against the COVID-19 pandemic.

"IOA is deeply grateful to its NSFs and state associations and other federation and bodies for extending their support and humble contributions towards the cause of our nation's fight against the COVID-19 pandemic," the IOA said in a statement issued by its Secretary General Rajeev Mehta.

"In these challenging times, the coming together of the Olympic family to support the nation's need once again reinforces our belief that we shall always come out stronger to serve sports and make the nation proud."

The IOA will transfer the donations to Prime Minister Cares Fund, the statement added.

The coronavirus outbreak, which originated in the Chinese city of Wuhan, has claimed over 53,000 lives worldwide while infecting more than a million people.

In India, it has led to 56 deaths as per official estimates with over 2,000 people infected by the deadly virus.

Several sports personalities, including Indian cricket team skipper Virat Kohli, batting maestro Sachin Tendulkar, shuttler PV Sindhu and athletes Neeraj Chopra and Hima Das, have also come forward to provide financial contributions to fight against the disease.

The Indian Olympic Association (IOA) has helped raise Rs 71 lakh through donations from its state affiliates and National Sports Federations (NSF) as a contribution towards the country's fight against the COVID-19 pandemic.

The Indian Olympic Association (IOA) has helped raise Rs 71 lakh through donations from its state affiliates and National Sports Federations (NSF) as a contribution towards the country's fight against the COVID-19 pandemic. "IOA is deeply grateful to its NSFs and state associations and other federation and bodies for extending their support and humble contributions towards the cause of our nation's fight against the COVID-19 pandemic," the IOA said in a statement issued by its Secretary General Rajeev Mehta. "In these challenging times, the coming together of the Olympic family to support the nation's need once again reinforces our belief that we shall always come out stronger to serve sports and make the nation proud." The IOA will transfer the donations to Prime Minister Cares Fund, the statement added. The coronavirus outbreak, which originated in the Chinese city of Wuhan, has claimed over 53,000 lives worldwide while infecting more than a million people. In India, it has led to 56 deaths as per official estimates with over 2,000 people infected by the deadly virus. Several sports personalities, including Indian cricket team skipper Virat Kohli, batting maestro Sachin Tendulkar, shuttler PV Sindhu and athletes Neeraj Chopra and Hima Das, have also come forward to provide financial contributions to fight against the disease.

IOA raises Rs 71 lakh as contribution in country's battle against COVID-19 pandemic

In what comes as a landmark piece of news, the 2020 Tokyo Olympics have been postponed to no later than the summer of 2021 due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The Games were scheduled to start from July 24 but after discussions with International Olympic Committee (IOC) president Thomas Bach and Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, the historic decision was taken to postpone the Tokyo Olympics to 2021.&nbsp;

The Indian Olympic Association (IOA) has welcomed the joint decision to postpone the Games by one year as the IOA announced that it would be holding meetings with athletes, NSFs, sponsors to revise the preparations for the quadrennial event. IOA Secretary General Rajeev Mehta said that the decision to delay the Games will relieve Indian athletes of worries of having to train during the epidemic.&nbsp;

"IOA welcomes the decision of IOC and #Tokyo2020. Soon after the lockdown is over, IOA would be holding meetings with Athletes, NSFs, Sponsors, etc. to revise preparations. This decision today, relieves our athletes of worries of having to train now during the epidemic," IOA Secretary General Rajeev Mehta said in a statement.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ioc-japan-agree-to-postpone-2020-tokyo-olympics-by-one-year-to-be-held-no-later-than-summer-of-2021-288259">IOC, Japan agree to postpone 2020 Tokyo Olympics by one year, to be held 'no later than summer of 2021'</a>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
"IOA welcomes the decision of IOC and <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Tokyo2020?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Tokyo2020</a>. Soon after the lock down is over, IOA would be holding meetings with Athletes, NSFs, Sponsors, etc. to revise preparations." <a href="https://t.co/ANr5chtlnF">https://t.co/ANr5chtlnF</a>
— NOC India (@WeAreTeamIndia) <a href="https://twitter.com/WeAreTeamIndia/status/1242446665312694272?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 24, 2020</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

Furthermore, the Olympic torch relay, which was scheduled to start from March 26 has been suspended. "The Olympic torch relay, which was scheduled to start from 26th (March), will not start," Tokyo 2020 president Yoshiro Mori told reporters.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/have-the-summer-olympics-ever-been-cancelled-a-look-back-at-history-as-dark-clouds-hover-over-2020-tokyo-games-288231">Have the Summer Olympics ever been cancelled? A look back at history</a>

Earlier on Tuesday, a joint statement was issued after the meeting between Bach and Abe as the pair said that based on the current information by the World Health Organization, the Tokyo Games "must be rescheduled to a date beyond 2020 but not later than summer 2021, to safeguard the health of the athletes, everybody involved in the Olympic Games and the international community".

"The leaders agreed that the Olympic Games in Tokyo could stand as a beacon of hope to the world during these troubled times and that the Olympic flame could become the light at the end of the tunnel in which the world finds itself at present.

"Therefore, it was agreed that the Olympic flame will stay in Japan. It was also agreed that the Games will keep the name Olympic and Paralympic Games Tokyo 2020," the statement concluded.

In what comes as a landmark piece of news, the 2020 Tokyo Olympics have been postponed to no later than the summer of 2021 due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The Games were scheduled to start from July 24 but after discussions with International Olympic Committee (IOC) president Thomas Bach and Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, the historic decision was taken to postpone the Tokyo Olympics to 2021.

In what comes as a landmark piece of news, the 2020 Tokyo Olympics have been postponed to no later than the summer of 2021 due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The Games were scheduled to start from July 24 but after discussions with International Olympic Committee (IOC) president Thomas Bach and Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, the historic decision was taken to postpone the Tokyo Olympics to 2021. The Indian Olympic Association (IOA) has welcomed the joint decision to postpone the Games by one year as the IOA announced that it would be holding meetings with athletes, NSFs, sponsors to revise the preparations for the quadrennial event. IOA Secretary General Rajeev Mehta said that the decision to delay the Games will relieve Indian athletes of worries of having to train during the epidemic. "IOA welcomes the decision of IOC and #Tokyo2020. Soon after the lockdown is over, IOA would be holding meetings with Athletes, NSFs, Sponsors, etc. to revise preparations. This decision today, relieves our athletes of worries of having to train now during the epidemic," IOA Secretary General Rajeev Mehta said in a statement. ALSO READ: IOC, Japan agree to postpone 2020 Tokyo Olympics by one year, to be held 'no later than summer of 2021' "IOA welcomes the decision of IOC and #Tokyo2020. Soon after the lock down is over, IOA would be holding meetings with Athletes, NSFs, Sponsors, etc. to revise preparations." https://t.co/ANr5chtlnF — NOC India (@WeAreTeamIndia) March 24, 2020 × Furthermore, the Olympic torch relay, which was scheduled to start from March 26 has been suspended. "The Olympic torch relay, which was scheduled to start from 26th (March), will not start," Tokyo 2020 president Yoshiro Mori told reporters. ALSO READ: Have the Summer Olympics ever been cancelled? A look back at history Earlier on Tuesday, a joint statement was issued after the meeting between Bach and Abe as the pair said that based on the current information by the World Health Organization, the Tokyo Games "must be rescheduled to a date beyond 2020 but not later than summer 2021, to safeguard the health of the athletes, everybody involved in the Olympic Games and the international community". "The leaders agreed that the Olympic Games in Tokyo could stand as a beacon of hope to the world during these troubled times and that the Olympic flame could become the light at the end of the tunnel in which the world finds itself at present. "Therefore, it was agreed that the Olympic flame will stay in Japan. It was also agreed that the Games will keep the name Olympic and Paralympic Games Tokyo 2020," the statement concluded.

'This decision relieves our athletes of worries' - IOA welcomes decision to postpone Tokyo Olympics to 2021

Indian Olympic Association President Narinder Batra on Monday said the IOC has asked all members to furnish updates on health and preparations of their Olympic-bound athletes this week as it deliberates on the fate of the Tokyo Games amid the COVID-19 pandemic.

The International Olympic Committee (IOC), under pressure to postpone the Games, has asked National Olympic Committees (NOCs) to detail the impact of the coronavirus crisis on athletes' preparation. The IOC on Monday said it will consider all options, barring cancellation, in the next four weeks.

"I am personally in touch on regular and continuous basis with Sports Ministry, Sports Authority of India, IOC, NSFs, with athletes through the NSFs and all stake holders regarding the 2020 Olympics and preparations for Olympics," Batra said.

"All NOCs have to get back to IOC this week on their preparations and the health of athletes in their respective countries," he added. 
He said international federations had a video call with the IOC President Thomas Bach on March 17 and with all 206 NOCs on March 19 to discuss the impact of COVID-19.

In a questionnaire titled "COVID-19 and preparation for the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games", the IOC has asked the Olympic committees of its member countries "how do the emergency regulations relating to COVID-19 limit the training and preparation of your athletes?"\\

Batra, also an IOC member and president of the International Hockey Federation, said the health and safety of athletes was the prime concern of the IOA and of the Sports Ministry and there will be no compromise in that regard.

"As of now, hockey men and women, track and field athletes and weightlifters are in their training camps while other (Olympic) probable athletes are mostly back home."

More than 70 Indian athletes have qualified for the Olympics.

On Monday, Canada and Australia said they will pull out of the showpiece if is held this year and demanded that the event be shifted to 2021. 
World athletics boss Sebastian Coe also urged the IOC to announce postponement, citing the pandemic which has claimed more than 14,000 lives across the globe.

Indian Olympic Association President Narinder Batra on Monday said the IOC has asked all members to furnish updates on health and preparations of their Olympic-bound athletes this week as it deliberates on the fate of the Tokyo Games amid the COVID-19 pandemic.

Indian Olympic Association President Narinder Batra on Monday said the IOC has asked all members to furnish updates on health and preparations of their Olympic-bound athletes this week as it deliberates on the fate of the Tokyo Games amid the COVID-19 pandemic. The International Olympic Committee (IOC), under pressure to postpone the Games, has asked National Olympic Committees (NOCs) to detail the impact of the coronavirus crisis on athletes' preparation. The IOC on Monday said it will consider all options, barring cancellation, in the next four weeks. "I am personally in touch on regular and continuous basis with Sports Ministry, Sports Authority of India, IOC, NSFs, with athletes through the NSFs and all stake holders regarding the 2020 Olympics and preparations for Olympics," Batra said. "All NOCs have to get back to IOC this week on their preparations and the health of athletes in their respective countries," he added. He said international federations had a video call with the IOC President Thomas Bach on March 17 and with all 206 NOCs on March 19 to discuss the impact of COVID-19. In a questionnaire titled "COVID-19 and preparation for the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games", the IOC has asked the Olympic committees of its member countries "how do the emergency regulations relating to COVID-19 limit the training and preparation of your athletes?"\\ Batra, also an IOC member and president of the International Hockey Federation, said the health and safety of athletes was the prime concern of the IOA and of the Sports Ministry and there will be no compromise in that regard. "As of now, hockey men and women, track and field athletes and weightlifters are in their training camps while other (Olympic) probable athletes are mostly back home." More than 70 Indian athletes have qualified for the Olympics. On Monday, Canada and Australia said they will pull out of the showpiece if is held this year and demanded that the event be shifted to 2021. World athletics boss Sebastian Coe also urged the IOC to announce postponement, citing the pandemic which has claimed more than 14,000 lives across the globe.

IOC has sought update on health and preparations of Olympic-bound athletes this week: Batra

The Indian Olympic Association on Monday said it is ready to wait for at least a month before taking any final call on India’s participation at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics after Canada became the first nation to pull out of the quadrennial event if it is held this year. Not only Canada, but even Australia have asked its athletes to prepare for the Games in 2021 as it thinks the showpiece event will eventually get postponed as the situation surrounding the novel COVID-19 continues to deteriorate with each passing day.

IOA Secretary General Rajeev Mehta said the committee is closely monitoring the development surrounding the coronavirus pandemic, which has killed a staggering 14,000 while infecting over 3,00,000.&nbsp;

Mehta said IOC will wait and watch for the next four to five weeks before taking any call after consultation with the International Olympic Committee (IOC) and the sports ministry while adding the situation in India is not that bad as compared to other nations.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/postponing-tokyo-olympics-may-become-inevitable-says-japan-pm-abe-as-coronavirus-emergency-grows-287958">Postponing Tokyo Olympics may become 'inevitable', says Japan PM Abe as coronavirus emergency grows</a>

<h2>"We will wait and watch"</h2>

"We will wait and watch for 4 to 5 weeks and then come to any decision after consultation with the International Olympic Committee (IOC) and the sports ministry," Mehta told PTI.

"The situation is not that bad in our country as compared to other nations," he added.

ALSO READ:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/canada-athletes-will-not-compete-at-tokyo-2020-games-due-to-risks-of-covid-19-287963">&nbsp;Canada: Athletes will not compete at Tokyo 2020 Games due to risks of COVID-19</a>

Furthermore, Japan’s Prime Minister Shinzo Abe on Monday told the parliament that the postponement of the 2020 Tokyo Olympics ‘may become inevitable’ if the situation surrounding the novel COVID-19 continues to deteriorate.

Abe said while the nation is still completely committed to a ‘complete’ Games, postponement may be inevitable considering the safety and welfare of athletes first. Abe in the parliament said: "if that becomes difficult, in light of considering athletes first, it may become inevitable that we make a decision to postpone."

The total number of COVID-19 cases in India has crossed 350, including seven deaths so far.

<o:p></o:p>

The Indian Olympic Association on Monday said it is ready to wait for at least a month before taking any final call on India’s participation at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics after Canada became the first nation to pull out of the quadrennial event if it is held this year.

The Indian Olympic Association on Monday said it is ready to wait for at least a month before taking any final call on India’s participation at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics after Canada became the first nation to pull out of the quadrennial event if it is held this year. Not only Canada, but even Australia have asked its athletes to prepare for the Games in 2021 as it thinks the showpiece event will eventually get postponed as the situation surrounding the novel COVID-19 continues to deteriorate with each passing day. IOA Secretary General Rajeev Mehta said the committee is closely monitoring the development surrounding the coronavirus pandemic, which has killed a staggering 14,000 while infecting over 3,00,000. Mehta said IOC will wait and watch for the next four to five weeks before taking any call after consultation with the International Olympic Committee (IOC) and the sports ministry while adding the situation in India is not that bad as compared to other nations. ALSO READ: Postponing Tokyo Olympics may become 'inevitable', says Japan PM Abe as coronavirus emergency grows "We will wait and watch" "We will wait and watch for 4 to 5 weeks and then come to any decision after consultation with the International Olympic Committee (IOC) and the sports ministry," Mehta told PTI. "The situation is not that bad in our country as compared to other nations," he added. ALSO READ: Canada: Athletes will not compete at Tokyo 2020 Games due to risks of COVID-19 Furthermore, Japan’s Prime Minister Shinzo Abe on Monday told the parliament that the postponement of the 2020 Tokyo Olympics ‘may become inevitable’ if the situation surrounding the novel COVID-19 continues to deteriorate. Abe said while the nation is still completely committed to a ‘complete’ Games, postponement may be inevitable considering the safety and welfare of athletes first. Abe in the parliament said: "if that becomes difficult, in light of considering athletes first, it may become inevitable that we make a decision to postpone." The total number of COVID-19 cases in India has crossed 350, including seven deaths so far.

IOA ready to 'wait and watch for a month before any decision' as Canada pulls out of 2020 Tokyo Olympics

Skepticism is sweeping through the world but the Indian Olympic Association (IOA) on Thursday backed the International Olympic Committee's (IOC) assertion that the upcoming Tokyo Olympics will weather the COVID-19 pandemic and be held on schedule, without a glitch.&nbsp;

The IOC and the Tokyo Games organisers are adamant that the Olympics will start on July 24 as scheduled, despite the coronavirus pandemic crippling health care systems and destroying economies across the world.&nbsp;

"The coronavirus is creating havoc throughout the world but we are hopeful it will be contained in one or two months. It has already been controlled in China, the epicenter of the disease; and we are expecting the Olympics to be held without any hindrance on its scheduled time," a senior IOA office-bearer said.&nbsp;

"But having said that, IOC is our parent body, (so) we will have to abide by what the IOC decides. If the IOC says the Olympics will go on, we will have to participate irrespective of any threat," he said.&nbsp;

The IOC's stance has angered many athletes, who have accused it of putting them at risk. Some officials have also expressed their apprehension. Responding to the criticism, the world body on Wednesday conceded that there are no easy solutions for the current situation.&nbsp;

The pandemic, which has caused more than 8,000 deaths since being discovered in China, has wreaked havoc on Olympic preparations of athletes, including those from India. Several qualifiers have been suspended and training trips abroad are off the table thanks to COVID-19 travel restrictions.&nbsp;

The IOA admitted that country's preparations have been hit hard but should the Games happen, it is nonetheless expecting an unprecedented double-digit medal haul from the athletes. "Yes, it is true our preparations have been hit with many Olympic qualifiers, Test events and preparatory camps abroad being postponed or cancelled because of the coronavirus," the official said.&nbsp;

"But it is not just India, every country is facing the same situation so, the impact is same for every competing nation. So our expectations still remain the same -- 10 or more medals in Tokyo," he asserted. He said the IOA is closely monitoring the situation with all the stakeholders in the country.&nbsp; 
"We are monitoring all our athletes' preparations as well as their well-being. We are also closely working with the Government of India, Tokyo Games orgainsers as well as the IOC in this tough time," he said.&nbsp;

The number of people infected with the highly contagious novel coronavirus has gone past 160 in India with three deaths reported in the country so far. The total number of cases reported worldwide so far stand at more than 218,800. 
<o:p></o:p>

Skepticism is sweeping through the world but the Indian Olympic Association (IOA) on Thursday backed the International Olympic Committee's (IOC) assertion that the upcoming Tokyo Olympics will weather the COVID-19 pandemic and be held on schedule, without a glitch.

Skepticism is sweeping through the world but the Indian Olympic Association (IOA) on Thursday backed the International Olympic Committee's (IOC) assertion that the upcoming Tokyo Olympics will weather the COVID-19 pandemic and be held on schedule, without a glitch. The IOC and the Tokyo Games organisers are adamant that the Olympics will start on July 24 as scheduled, despite the coronavirus pandemic crippling health care systems and destroying economies across the world. "The coronavirus is creating havoc throughout the world but we are hopeful it will be contained in one or two months. It has already been controlled in China, the epicenter of the disease; and we are expecting the Olympics to be held without any hindrance on its scheduled time," a senior IOA office-bearer said. "But having said that, IOC is our parent body, (so) we will have to abide by what the IOC decides. If the IOC says the Olympics will go on, we will have to participate irrespective of any threat," he said. The IOC's stance has angered many athletes, who have accused it of putting them at risk. Some officials have also expressed their apprehension. Responding to the criticism, the world body on Wednesday conceded that there are no easy solutions for the current situation. The pandemic, which has caused more than 8,000 deaths since being discovered in China, has wreaked havoc on Olympic preparations of athletes, including those from India. Several qualifiers have been suspended and training trips abroad are off the table thanks to COVID-19 travel restrictions. The IOA admitted that country's preparations have been hit hard but should the Games happen, it is nonetheless expecting an unprecedented double-digit medal haul from the athletes. "Yes, it is true our preparations have been hit with many Olympic qualifiers, Test events and preparatory camps abroad being postponed or cancelled because of the coronavirus," the official said. "But it is not just India, every country is facing the same situation so, the impact is same for every competing nation. So our expectations still remain the same -- 10 or more medals in Tokyo," he asserted. He said the IOA is closely monitoring the situation with all the stakeholders in the country. "We are monitoring all our athletes' preparations as well as their well-being. We are also closely working with the Government of India, Tokyo Games orgainsers as well as the IOC in this tough time," he said. The number of people infected with the highly contagious novel coronavirus has gone past 160 in India with three deaths reported in the country so far. The total number of cases reported worldwide so far stand at more than 218,800.

If 2020 Tokyo Olympics happen, India will have to participate irrespective of any threat: IOA official

The Indian Olympic Association has offered the Commonwealth Games Federation that India could host the sporting events&nbsp;that have been removed from the roster for the 2022 Birmingham games. The games are <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/in-boycott-reversal-india-to-participate-in-the-2022-commonwealth-games-in-birmingham-cgf-271095">not going to host</a> any shooting events.

The Indian Olympic Association (IOA) had threatened to boycott the Birmingham Games over shooting's exclusion before their climbdown last week.

The Indian shooting federation has offered to host a&nbsp;Commonwealth&nbsp;shooting championship in 2022 and the IOA also wants to organise a similar competition for archery, which will not feature in Birmingham either.

"We are in the process of sending our proposal for the shooting and archery competitions to the&nbsp;Commonwealth&nbsp;Games Federation (CGF)," said IOA secretary general Rajeev Mehta.

"As of now, shooting federation will finance the shooting competition and we're seeking government fund for archery."

Indian officials also want the medals won in both the tournaments to count in the final table in Birmingham.

IOA was most upset at the exclusion of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-firms-up-commonwealth-games-boycott-threats-over-shooting-exclusion-239030">shooting</a> which supplied 16 of India's 66 medals, including seven golds, at the 2018 Gold Coast Games.

In its absence, India, who finished third in the 2018 medals table, could slip to anywhere between fifth and eighth in Birmingham, according to IOA estimates.

National Rifle Association of India (NRAI), which led the outrage against shooting's exclusion, came up with the idea of a separate&nbsp;Commonwealth&nbsp;championship.

"It's a simple proposal to have an adjunct competition, either in New Delhi or Chandigarh, three months before the main Games in Birmingham," NRAI president <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/young-guns-of-indian-shooting-ready-for-gold-rush-at-tokyo-olympics-249259">Raninder Singh</a> told sources.

The proposal follows CGF president Louise Martin's meeting with her international shooting federation (ISSF) counterpart Vladimir Lisin in Munich last month.

"Although a&nbsp;Commonwealth&nbsp;Shooting Championships is amongst one of several ideas being discussed with the ISSF, nothing has been formally proposed, let alone agreed upon..." CGF chief executive David Grevemberg said in a statement last month.

"...speculation around what this event could look like, and what medals won at such an event could mean in the context of the&nbsp;Commonwealth&nbsp;Games, is extremely premature."

Singh, who attended the Munich meeting as ISS vice-president, said India's offer could lead to infrastructure-sharing among CGF members nations.

"This is a very exciting and unique offer, which can be a game-changer. It may not have happened in&nbsp;Commonwealth&nbsp;Games, but co-hosting is not unprecedented in sports.

"Why <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/commonwealths-a-waste-of-time-and-money-india-olympic-chief-251964">waste money</a> creating new infrastructure which may rot and not use the existing ones even if in another country? It gives flexibility.

"There will always be some sports which will be left out. It's shooting now, it maybe <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/indias-teen-shuttler-lakshya-sen-wins-scottish-open-264356">badminton</a>'s turn next time.

"Adjunct competitions can take the Games to a much bigger and larger audience and help retain the popular but optional disciplines," Singh added.

The Indian Olympic Association has offered the Commonwealth Games Federation that India could host the sporting events that have been removed from the roster for the 2022 Birmingham games.

The Indian Olympic Association has offered the Commonwealth Games Federation that India could host the sporting events that have been removed from the roster for the 2022 Birmingham games. The games are not going to host any shooting events. The Indian Olympic Association (IOA) had threatened to boycott the Birmingham Games over shooting's exclusion before their climbdown last week. The Indian shooting federation has offered to host a Commonwealth shooting championship in 2022 and the IOA also wants to organise a similar competition for archery, which will not feature in Birmingham either. "We are in the process of sending our proposal for the shooting and archery competitions to the Commonwealth Games Federation (CGF)," said IOA secretary general Rajeev Mehta. "As of now, shooting federation will finance the shooting competition and we're seeking government fund for archery." Indian officials also want the medals won in both the tournaments to count in the final table in Birmingham. IOA was most upset at the exclusion of shooting which supplied 16 of India's 66 medals, including seven golds, at the 2018 Gold Coast Games. In its absence, India, who finished third in the 2018 medals table, could slip to anywhere between fifth and eighth in Birmingham, according to IOA estimates. National Rifle Association of India (NRAI), which led the outrage against shooting's exclusion, came up with the idea of a separate Commonwealth championship. "It's a simple proposal to have an adjunct competition, either in New Delhi or Chandigarh, three months before the main Games in Birmingham," NRAI president Raninder Singh told sources. The proposal follows CGF president Louise Martin's meeting with her international shooting federation (ISSF) counterpart Vladimir Lisin in Munich last month. "Although a Commonwealth Shooting Championships is amongst one of several ideas being discussed with the ISSF, nothing has been formally proposed, let alone agreed upon..." CGF chief executive David Grevemberg said in a statement last month. "...speculation around what this event could look like, and what medals won at such an event could mean in the context of the Commonwealth Games, is extremely premature." Singh, who attended the Munich meeting as ISS vice-president, said India's offer could lead to infrastructure-sharing among CGF members nations. "This is a very exciting and unique offer, which can be a game-changer. It may not have happened in Commonwealth Games, but co-hosting is not unprecedented in sports. "Why waste money creating new infrastructure which may rot and not use the existing ones even if in another country? It gives flexibility. "There will always be some sports which will be left out. It's shooting now, it maybe badminton's turn next time. "Adjunct competitions can take the Games to a much bigger and larger audience and help retain the popular but optional disciplines," Singh added.

India could host shooting events for CWG 2022: NRAI President Raninder Singh

India's Sports Minister Kiren Rijiju has urged his British counterpart, Nicky Morgan, to have shooting included in the 2022 Commonwealth Games in Birmingham.

The Birmingham organising committee has dropped shooting from the programme because of no suitable space, prompting a threat from the Indian Olympic Association (IOA) to boycott the Games.

In a letter on Tuesday, Rijiju asked Morgan, secretary of state for sport, to intervene and bring back a sport that has been part of the Commonwealth Games since 1974.

"It seems the decision to exclude shooting is based on the premise that shooting had never been a compulsory sport and there is no venue available for holding shooting events," Rijiju wrote to Morgan.

"The Indian public takes a keen interest in shooting. In a constructive gesture, the International Shooting Federation (ISSF) has offered to share the cost for the inclusion of shooting in Birmingham CWG."

India topped the table for shooting at last year's edition in Australia, taking home 16 medals including seven gold for a total tally of 66 medals&nbsp;the third best performing nation in the games overall.

Rijiju noted that India makes up more than half of 2.4-billion-strong population of the 53-nation Commonwealth.

India's Sports Minister Kiren Rijiju has urged his British counterpart, Nicky Morgan, to have shooting included in the 2022 Commonwealth Games in Birmingham. The Birmingham organising committee has dropped shooting from the programme because of no suitable space, prompting a threat from the Indian Olympic Association (IOA) to boycott the Games.

India's Sports Minister Kiren Rijiju has urged his British counterpart, Nicky Morgan, to have shooting included in the 2022 Commonwealth Games in Birmingham. The Birmingham organising committee has dropped shooting from the programme because of no suitable space, prompting a threat from the Indian Olympic Association (IOA) to boycott the Games. In a letter on Tuesday, Rijiju asked Morgan, secretary of state for sport, to intervene and bring back a sport that has been part of the Commonwealth Games since 1974. "It seems the decision to exclude shooting is based on the premise that shooting had never been a compulsory sport and there is no venue available for holding shooting events," Rijiju wrote to Morgan. "The Indian public takes a keen interest in shooting. In a constructive gesture, the International Shooting Federation (ISSF) has offered to share the cost for the inclusion of shooting in Birmingham CWG." India topped the table for shooting at last year's edition in Australia, taking home 16 medals including seven gold for a total tally of 66 medals the third best performing nation in the games overall. Rijiju noted that India makes up more than half of 2.4-billion-strong population of the 53-nation Commonwealth.

India pushes for inclusion of shooting in Commonwealth Games

&nbsp;

Facing a severe backlash for appointing scam-tainted Suresh Kalmadi and Abhay Singh Chautala as life presidents, the Indian Olympic Association has been forced to revoke its controversial decision.

A top IOA official confirmed that the appointments of Kalmadi and Chautala has been declared &quot;null and void&quot; in order to get the recognition of the Sports Ministry and also to avoid any possible action from the International Olympic Committee (IOC).

Kalmadi and Chautala were elevated to the honorary position at the IOA&#39;s Annual General Meeting (AGM) in Chennai on December 27, but the Olympic body was forced to reverse its decision after it was opposed by a majority of IOA members.

&quot;Both Kamaldi and Chautala&#39;s appointments have been declared null and void as after going through all the documents of the AGM we found out that there were technical fault in the decision,&quot; a top IOA official said. &quot;Kamaldi and Chautala are no longer part of IOA and have nothing to do with IOA,&quot; the official added.

The current move can be termed as a complete U-turn from the IOA which has been suspended by the Sports Ministry for making the controversial appointments.

The Ministry said IOA&#39;s suspension will continue until it decides to reverse its decision of appointing Kalmadi and Chautala as its life presidents. In fact, newly-appointed International Hockey Federation (FIH) president Narinder Batra also resigned as the Olympic body&#39;s associate vice-president in protest.

While Kalmadi is an accused in the 2010 Commonwealth Games corruption scam and has also spent nine months in jail, Chautala is facing a trial in disproportionate assets case. However, Kalmadi hasn&#39;t accepted the honourary post until he gets a clean chit from the court, Chautala was defiant and decided to stick to his position until he was asked by the IOC to do so.

(PTI)

Facing a backlash, Indian Olympic Association has decided to revoke appointments of Suresh Kalmadi and Abhay Chautala as life presidents

Facing a severe backlash for appointing scam-tainted Suresh Kalmadi and Abhay Singh Chautala as life presidents, the Indian Olympic Association has been forced to revoke its controversial decision. A top IOA official confirmed that the appointments of Kalmadi and Chautala has been declared "null and void" in order to get the recognition of the Sports Ministry and also to avoid any possible action from the International Olympic Committee (IOC). Kalmadi and Chautala were elevated to the honorary position at the IOA's Annual General Meeting (AGM) in Chennai on December 27, but the Olympic body was forced to reverse its decision after it was opposed by a majority of IOA members. "Both Kamaldi and Chautala's appointments have been declared null and void as after going through all the documents of the AGM we found out that there were technical fault in the decision," a top IOA official said. "Kamaldi and Chautala are no longer part of IOA and have nothing to do with IOA," the official added. The current move can be termed as a complete U-turn from the IOA which has been suspended by the Sports Ministry for making the controversial appointments. The Ministry said IOA's suspension will continue until it decides to reverse its decision of appointing Kalmadi and Chautala as its life presidents. In fact, newly-appointed International Hockey Federation (FIH) president Narinder Batra also resigned as the Olympic body's associate vice-president in protest. While Kalmadi is an accused in the 2010 Commonwealth Games corruption scam and has also spent nine months in jail, Chautala is facing a trial in disproportionate assets case. However, Kalmadi hasn't accepted the honourary post until he gets a clean chit from the court, Chautala was defiant and decided to stick to his position until he was asked by the IOC to do so. (PTI)

IOA cancels Suresh Kalmadi and Abhay Chautala's appointments

Ioa, News on Ioa, stories on Ioa, articles on Ioa, Ioa stories at Wion, Ioa news, Ioa latest news

ioa