Indian Olympic Association (IOA) President Narinder Batra on Thursday confirmed that the manager of the Indian contingent at the Beijing Winter Olympics has tested negative for COVID-19.

"The manager of Indian team Abbas Wani tested negative in the 2 tests done on him in last 24 Hours. Hence the entire Indian contingent in Beijing is Covid Free, Thank you, Harjinder Singh Chef de Mission, Indian Embassy in China, and MYAS Govt of India for taking care of everyone," Batra said in an official statement.

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Earlier, the manager of the Indian contingent for the upcoming Winter Beijing Olympics had tested positive for COVID-19. The development was confirmed by Indian Olympic Association (IOA) President Narinder Batra.

"The manager of the Indian contingent Abbas Wani tested Covid-19 positive at Beijing Airport. The chef de mission Harjinder Singh is coordinating for a re-test," Batra had said in an official statement.

The Beijing Winter Olympics are slated to run from February 4-20. Kashmir skier Arif Khan is the only athlete from India to have qualified for Beijing Winter Olympics 2022.Arif will be competing in Slalom and Giant Slalom events.&nbsp;

Indian Olympic Association (IOA) President Narinder Batra on Thursday confirmed that the manager of the Indian contingent at the Beijing Winter Olympics has tested negative for COVID-19.

Indian Olympic Association (IOA) President Narinder Batra on Thursday confirmed that the manager of the Indian contingent at the Beijing Winter Olympics has tested negative for COVID-19. "The manager of Indian team Abbas Wani tested negative in the 2 tests done on him in last 24 Hours. Hence the entire Indian contingent in Beijing is Covid Free, Thank you, Harjinder Singh Chef de Mission, Indian Embassy in China, and MYAS Govt of India for taking care of everyone," Batra said in an official statement. Read Also | Beijing Olympics: COVID pulls out German Nolan Seegert from figure skating event Earlier, the manager of the Indian contingent for the upcoming Winter Beijing Olympics had tested positive for COVID-19. The development was confirmed by Indian Olympic Association (IOA) President Narinder Batra. "The manager of the Indian contingent Abbas Wani tested Covid-19 positive at Beijing Airport. The chef de mission Harjinder Singh is coordinating for a re-test," Batra had said in an official statement. The Beijing Winter Olympics are slated to run from February 4-20. Kashmir skier Arif Khan is the only athlete from India to have qualified for Beijing Winter Olympics 2022.Arif will be competing in Slalom and Giant Slalom events.

Beijing Olympics 2022: Indian contingent manager Narinder Batra tests negative for COVID-19

Hockey India on Saturday congratulated Narinder Dhruv Batra who created yet another historic milestone for Indian sport. He became the first Indian to be elected as president of the International Hockey Federation (FIH) for the second consecutive term at the 47th FIH Congress on Saturday. His victory was basis a largely unanimous decision, Batra secured 63 votes out of 124 to edge past tough opponent in Belgium’s Marc Coudron, the only other candidate for the FIH Presidency at the Congress.

In 2016, Batra who was then an Executive Board Member of FIH as well as the vice-president of the Asian Hockey Federation, became the first Indian to head a global sports governing body when he replaced outgoing FIH President Leandro Negre, for a four-year term. With him being re-elected for the top post, Batra will continue to serve as president of FIH till 2024.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Batra, under his leadership in the first term prioritised the growth of hockey globally also achieved key milestones such as the implementation of the FIH’s global home-and-away league – The FIH Hockey Pro League, launched the FIH Nations Cup, and implemented the FIH Hockey 5s World Cup and Hockey 5s World Tour.

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With over two decades of experience in sports administration, Batra led FIH with professional administrative acumen that delivered efficient governance and also created a transparent system.&nbsp;&nbsp;

In his second term, Batra in his election manifesto committed to continue to work towards increasing the number of hockey playing nations as well as the visibility of hockey. Enhancing financial sustainability, to innovate, and improve the Olympic status of the sport and harmonise the international calendar of events are some of his key agendas paving forward. Batra also endeavours to make hockey more inclusive and use hockey as a catalyst to bring about a positive social change.&nbsp;&nbsp;

In his address through a virtual conference during the FIH Congress, Batra said: “My no. 1 priority is to grow the sport globally and to do that we need to constantly evolve with new formats and events. Provide the right kind of training and infrastructure to create a holistic ecosystem that is sustainable. And while we develop and grow our hockey universe it is also essential to increase our visibility and reach. We need to keep up with an extremely dynamic landscape of mediums to reach and engage better with our fans. And equally so reach new audiences we have found in countries across the American and African sub-continents, among others.”

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As to the challenges he looks to tackle in his second term as president, Batra said, “We need to enhance our financial stability. A well-developed revenue model from media rights holders and commercial partners is the key to achieve sustainable financial growth. I have seen keen interest in further engagement from Indian commercial partners which I will continue to work with closely to channelise into global events and development initiatives.”

Congratulating Batra on this historic feat, Hockey India President Gyanendro Ningombam said, “Dr Narinder Dhruv Batra in his first term led the hockey fraternity into a new era with innovative formats and tournaments that would further enhance the popularity of the sport particularly among the younger generation. He is a man on a mission to globalise hockey and we congratulate him and wish him the very best as he endeavours to achieve new milestones as President of FIH in his second consecutive term. It is a proud moment for India. We will continue to seek his guidance and learn from his experience to further develop the sport in India.”&nbsp;&nbsp;

Hockey India on Saturday congratulated Narinder Dhruv Batra who created yet another historic milestone for Indian sport. He became the first Indian to be elected as president of the International Hockey Federation (FIH) for the second consecutive term at the 47th FIH Congress on Saturday.

Hockey India on Saturday congratulated Narinder Dhruv Batra who created yet another historic milestone for Indian sport. He became the first Indian to be elected as president of the International Hockey Federation (FIH) for the second consecutive term at the 47th FIH Congress on Saturday. His victory was basis a largely unanimous decision, Batra secured 63 votes out of 124 to edge past tough opponent in Belgium’s Marc Coudron, the only other candidate for the FIH Presidency at the Congress. In 2016, Batra who was then an Executive Board Member of FIH as well as the vice-president of the Asian Hockey Federation, became the first Indian to head a global sports governing body when he replaced outgoing FIH President Leandro Negre, for a four-year term. With him being re-elected for the top post, Batra will continue to serve as president of FIH till 2024. Batra, under his leadership in the first term prioritised the growth of hockey globally also achieved key milestones such as the implementation of the FIH’s global home-and-away league – The FIH Hockey Pro League, launched the FIH Nations Cup, and implemented the FIH Hockey 5s World Cup and Hockey 5s World Tour. ALSO READ: Olympics: Sun Yang's career on the line at appeal hearing With over two decades of experience in sports administration, Batra led FIH with professional administrative acumen that delivered efficient governance and also created a transparent system. In his second term, Batra in his election manifesto committed to continue to work towards increasing the number of hockey playing nations as well as the visibility of hockey. Enhancing financial sustainability, to innovate, and improve the Olympic status of the sport and harmonise the international calendar of events are some of his key agendas paving forward. Batra also endeavours to make hockey more inclusive and use hockey as a catalyst to bring about a positive social change. In his address through a virtual conference during the FIH Congress, Batra said: “My no. 1 priority is to grow the sport globally and to do that we need to constantly evolve with new formats and events. Provide the right kind of training and infrastructure to create a holistic ecosystem that is sustainable. And while we develop and grow our hockey universe it is also essential to increase our visibility and reach. We need to keep up with an extremely dynamic landscape of mediums to reach and engage better with our fans. And equally so reach new audiences we have found in countries across the American and African sub-continents, among others.” ALSO READ: Olympic medalist Sushil Kumar arrested in wrestler murder case: Reports As to the challenges he looks to tackle in his second term as president, Batra said, “We need to enhance our financial stability. A well-developed revenue model from media rights holders and commercial partners is the key to achieve sustainable financial growth. I have seen keen interest in further engagement from Indian commercial partners which I will continue to work with closely to channelise into global events and development initiatives.” Congratulating Batra on this historic feat, Hockey India President Gyanendro Ningombam said, “Dr Narinder Dhruv Batra in his first term led the hockey fraternity into a new era with innovative formats and tournaments that would further enhance the popularity of the sport particularly among the younger generation. He is a man on a mission to globalise hockey and we congratulate him and wish him the very best as he endeavours to achieve new milestones as President of FIH in his second consecutive term. It is a proud moment for India. We will continue to seek his guidance and learn from his experience to further develop the sport in India.”

Hockey India congratulates Narinder Batra on being elected as president of FIH

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

Narinder Batra on Tuesday denied flouting any rules while becoming President of the Indian Olympic Association and the International Hockey Federation as he reached out to IOC chief Thomas Bach to reject allegations of irregularity from within the IOA.

Two and a half years after Batra's election as IOA chief, one of its vice presidents, Sudhanshu Mittal, has questioned his taking up the top job, saying he was not even eligible to contest the polls under the then constitution.

Mittal, in a letter to the FIH, has alleged that "a major cover up" was done to allow Batra to contest the election for the top sports job of the country. Batra offered a rebuttal in a communication to Bach.

"I would personally like to assure you that I have at no stage flouted any of the Rules and Regulations of the Indian Olympic Association or the International Hockey Federation in my election as President of the Indian Olympic Association which was held on 14 December 2017," Batra wrote.

"It is disappointing that Mr Mittal, who himself was elected as Vice President of the Indian Olympic Association in the same elections, is now trying to damage my image and reputation as a means to project himself as he intends to stand as a candidate for the post of President in the 2021 Indian Olympic Association elections."

Mittal's allegations on the "illegality" of Batra's election have emerged amid a feud among the top brass of the IOA. He had earlier written to the International Olympic Committee, claiming that Batra was "illegally" elected as IOA president. 
Mittal's allegation is that the IOA constitution of 2013, as approved by the IOC, provided that the presidential candidate will have to be a member of the preceding executive council and Batra was not at that time.

He alleged that constitution's interpretation was changed to membership of two preceding executive councils instead of only the last council in a Special General Body Meeting held on November 29, 2017.

In his message to Bach, Batra, an IOC member from India, accused Mittal of damaging his reputation, and claimed that a conflict of interest case can't be made out following his election to the post of FIH chief.

"...The e-mail of Mr Mittal is self motivated and clearly his intent is to malign my reputation ahead of the Indian Olympic Association elections scheduled for 2021.

"...The above Article 7.2 is in the FIH Statutes with effect from 3 November 2018. My election to the post of the Indian Olympic Association was on 14 December 2017 and as such this Article was not applicable at the time of my IOA elections," he claimed.

"To ensure there was no conflict of interest in my election as President, International Hockey Federation, I resigned from the post of President, Hockey India on 25 November 2016."

Batra, who is currently under quarantine after seven people, including helpers, tested positive at his home, hoped that the IOC chief will take his clarifications "on record", and promised to send a detailed reply once he resumes office.

Narinder Batra on Tuesday denied flouting any rules while becoming President of the Indian Olympic Association and the International Hockey Federation as he reached out to IOC chief Thomas Bach to reject allegations of irregularity from within the IOA.

Narinder Batra on Tuesday denied flouting any rules while becoming President of the Indian Olympic Association and the International Hockey Federation as he reached out to IOC chief Thomas Bach to reject allegations of irregularity from within the IOA. Two and a half years after Batra's election as IOA chief, one of its vice presidents, Sudhanshu Mittal, has questioned his taking up the top job, saying he was not even eligible to contest the polls under the then constitution. Mittal, in a letter to the FIH, has alleged that "a major cover up" was done to allow Batra to contest the election for the top sports job of the country. Batra offered a rebuttal in a communication to Bach. "I would personally like to assure you that I have at no stage flouted any of the Rules and Regulations of the Indian Olympic Association or the International Hockey Federation in my election as President of the Indian Olympic Association which was held on 14 December 2017," Batra wrote. "It is disappointing that Mr Mittal, who himself was elected as Vice President of the Indian Olympic Association in the same elections, is now trying to damage my image and reputation as a means to project himself as he intends to stand as a candidate for the post of President in the 2021 Indian Olympic Association elections." Mittal's allegations on the "illegality" of Batra's election have emerged amid a feud among the top brass of the IOA. He had earlier written to the International Olympic Committee, claiming that Batra was "illegally" elected as IOA president. Mittal's allegation is that the IOA constitution of 2013, as approved by the IOC, provided that the presidential candidate will have to be a member of the preceding executive council and Batra was not at that time. He alleged that constitution's interpretation was changed to membership of two preceding executive councils instead of only the last council in a Special General Body Meeting held on November 29, 2017. In his message to Bach, Batra, an IOC member from India, accused Mittal of damaging his reputation, and claimed that a conflict of interest case can't be made out following his election to the post of FIH chief. "...The e-mail of Mr Mittal is self motivated and clearly his intent is to malign my reputation ahead of the Indian Olympic Association elections scheduled for 2021. "...The above Article 7.2 is in the FIH Statutes with effect from 3 November 2018. My election to the post of the Indian Olympic Association was on 14 December 2017 and as such this Article was not applicable at the time of my IOA elections," he claimed. "To ensure there was no conflict of interest in my election as President, International Hockey Federation, I resigned from the post of President, Hockey India on 25 November 2016." Batra, who is currently under quarantine after seven people, including helpers, tested positive at his home, hoped that the IOC chief will take his clarifications "on record", and promised to send a detailed reply once he resumes office.

Batra writes to Bach on allegations of electoral irregularity, assures him of being on right side

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

Indian Olympic Association (IOA) President Narinder Batra on Saturday stirred a controversy by saying that politicians should lead the various national sports federations (NSF).

The comments came despite the growing chorus of replacing politicians with sportspersons to lead the various federations.

Batra further added that lawmakers at the helm is "good for Indian sports".

"Sixty out of the 66 medals India won in the CWG were by players from NSFs being headed by politicians. Badminton, table tennis, wrestling, weightlifting, shooting to name a few are headed by politicians and they are giving medals to the country," Batra said at a felicitation function of the badminton players who have won medals at the CWG.

"Politicians heading NSFs are not bad but they are actually good for Indian sports," he added.

Batra also said that country should aim to win double-digit medals at the Tokyo Olympics and around 25 at the 2024 games in Paris.

The IOA president feels that a good show will then help them gain public support in its bid to host the 2032 Summer Games. 
&nbsp;

The comments came despite the growing chorus of replacing politicians with sportspersons

Indian Olympic Association (IOA) President Narinder Batra on Saturday stirred a controversy by saying that politicians should lead the various national sports federations (NSF). The comments came despite the growing chorus of replacing politicians with sportspersons to lead the various federations. Batra further added that lawmakers at the helm is "good for Indian sports". "Sixty out of the 66 medals India won in the CWG were by players from NSFs being headed by politicians. Badminton, table tennis, wrestling, weightlifting, shooting to name a few are headed by politicians and they are giving medals to the country," Batra said at a felicitation function of the badminton players who have won medals at the CWG. "Politicians heading NSFs are not bad but they are actually good for Indian sports," he added. Batra also said that country should aim to win double-digit medals at the Tokyo Olympics and around 25 at the 2024 games in Paris. The IOA president feels that a good show will then help them gain public support in its bid to host the 2032 Summer Games.

Politicians should head national sports federations, says IOA chief

International Hockey Federation chief Narinder Batra was on Thursday elected as president of Indian Olympic Association for a four-year term by an overwhelming majority in the polls held at its Annual General Meeting here.

The 60-year-old Batra secured 142 votes while his rival Anil Khanna got 13 in a two-way contest in the polls held under the supervision of a three-member Election Commission, comprising of&nbsp;retired High Court justices. SK Mendiratta, a legal advisor to the Election Commission of India, was the returning officer.

Batra&#39;s election to the top post was on expected lines after Khanna, a former All India Tennis Association president, &#39;withdrew&#39; from the contest in a surprise&nbsp;move. But there was an election for the president&#39;s post as Khanna sent the withdrawal letter to the IOA-appointed Election Commission after the stipulated deadline of December 3.

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Incumbent Secretary General Rajeev Mehta was re-elected for his second term without any contest as he was the lone candidate for the post.

Batra has thus become one of the few sports administrators who heads an important international federation as well as a National Olympic Committee.

Meanwhile, Anandeshwar Pandey was elected as the treasurer after he defeated Rakesh Gupta by 113 to 37 votes. RK Anand defeated JS Gehlot by 96 votes to 35 for the post of the senior vice president.

The election results will, however, be subject to the final decision of the Delhi High Court that yesterday refused to stay the polls on a petition filed by lawyer Rahul Mehra. 
 
Just after winning the election, Batra said that he would take a proposal to the government to host the 2032 Olympics, 2030 Asian Games and 2026 Commonwealth Games.

&quot;I am yet to take over as the IOA President. But once I settle down, the IOA will take a proposal to the government to host the 2032 Olympics, 2030 Asiad and 2026 CWG. We should think big but hosting these Games depends on government as they will sanction the funds,&quot; he told a press conference.

&quot;The IOA hopes to work with the government in a conducive atmosphere. We want to have a good relationship with them but at the same time they will also have to draw the line (upto where it can go). The government has to understand that a sports body has an autonomy in its functioning. There&#39;s a thin line.&quot;

Batra said he would not want to comment on the order of the Delhi High Court, which has asked the IOA to follow the Sports Code.

&quot;I will not want to answer any question relating to a matter which is pending in a court of law. But I don&#39;t know how IOA is not following the Sports Code. The Constitution of the IOA of 2013 was approved by the government, the IOC and the OCA. After that which changes in the Code was not accepted by the IOA, I don&#39;t know.

Asked about sporting relations with Pakistan, Batra said, &quot;As far as multilateral events organised by the international federations are concerned, we have to play Pakistan. But I think it is not possible to play them in bilateral events unless the relation between the two countries are improved.&quot;

&quot;Moreover their behaviour at the border will have to improve. Everybody in India is an Indian first.&quot;

When Batra was the president of Hockey India, there was an acrimonious incident between Indian and Hockey teams after a match at the 2014 Champions Trophy in Bhubaneswar and he had stopped all bilateral matches between the two countries until Pakistan made an unconditional apology.

Asked about his priorities as IOA president, Batra said, &quot;I want to work to improve the country&#39;s number of medals in Olympics and other Games, how to resolve the issues of the athletes, to bring improvement in the relationship with the government. We want to work with the government in a conducive atmosphere, they should try to know our views and we will also try to know their views so that we can work together.

&quot;The IOA will work as a team. Rajeev Mehta is an experienced hand and he is in his second term. The other members are also experienced. We will divide the duties and responsibilities among ourselves and will work as a team. There will not be a one-man show.&quot;

He acknowledged that his predecessor N Ramachandran had also worked for the welfare of the athletes.

Talking about the provision of 25 per cent sportspersons in the Executive Council which is required under the Sports Code, he said, &quot;As I understand the Sports Code is applied to the NSFs and IOA is not mentioned in the Sports Code. The definition of the sportspersons will have to be elaborated. I believe sportsperson does not mean only those who have played for India. I am also a sportsperson.

&quot;When we checked we found out that more than 60 per cent of people in the present Executive Council are sportspersons.&quot;

Mehta informed that the next National Games will be held in Goa next year from November 4-18.

&quot;We have guidelines for the hosting of the National Games. We have made these guidelines stricter. The National Games will be held next year in Goa from November 4-1, it has been confirmed,&quot; Mehta said.

He said he had a good relation with the former president Ramachandran and hoped to have the same with Batra also.

President: Narinder Batra 
Senior Vice-President: R K Anand 
Vice-President: Addille Sumariwalla, Birendra Prasad Baishya, V D Nanavati, Sudhanshu Mittal, Sunaina Kumari, K Govindraj, Kuldeep Vats, Karan Chautala 
Secretary General: Rajeev Mehta 
Treasurer: Anandeshwar Pandey 
Joint Secretary: S M Bali, Rakesh Gupta, Namdev Shirgaonkar, Onkar Singh, D V Sitaram Rao, Vikram Sisodia 
Executive Council Members: Adhip Das, Ajit Banerjee, Balbir Singh Kushwah, Digvijay Singh, Dushyant Chautala, Gurudutta Bhakta, Hemochandra Singh, V N Prasood, Rupak Debroy, Abhijt Sarkar.

Batra was elected for a four-year term by an overwhelming majority

International Hockey Federation chief Narinder Batra was on Thursday elected as president of Indian Olympic Association for a four-year term by an overwhelming majority in the polls held at its Annual General Meeting here. The 60-year-old Batra secured 142 votes while his rival Anil Khanna got 13 in a two-way contest in the polls held under the supervision of a three-member Election Commission, comprising of retired High Court justices. SK Mendiratta, a legal advisor to the Election Commission of India, was the returning officer. Batra's election to the top post was on expected lines after Khanna, a former All India Tennis Association president, 'withdrew' from the contest in a surprise move. But there was an election for the president's post as Khanna sent the withdrawal letter to the IOA-appointed Election Commission after the stipulated deadline of December 3. Batra has become one of the few sports administrators who heads an important international federation as well as a National Olympic Committee × Incumbent Secretary General Rajeev Mehta was re-elected for his second term without any contest as he was the lone candidate for the post. Batra has thus become one of the few sports administrators who heads an important international federation as well as a National Olympic Committee. Meanwhile, Anandeshwar Pandey was elected as the treasurer after he defeated Rakesh Gupta by 113 to 37 votes. RK Anand defeated JS Gehlot by 96 votes to 35 for the post of the senior vice president. The election results will, however, be subject to the final decision of the Delhi High Court that yesterday refused to stay the polls on a petition filed by lawyer Rahul Mehra. Just after winning the election, Batra said that he would take a proposal to the government to host the 2032 Olympics, 2030 Asian Games and 2026 Commonwealth Games. "I am yet to take over as the IOA President. But once I settle down, the IOA will take a proposal to the government to host the 2032 Olympics, 2030 Asiad and 2026 CWG. We should think big but hosting these Games depends on government as they will sanction the funds," he told a press conference. "The IOA hopes to work with the government in a conducive atmosphere. We want to have a good relationship with them but at the same time they will also have to draw the line (upto where it can go). The government has to understand that a sports body has an autonomy in its functioning. There's a thin line." Batra said he would not want to comment on the order of the Delhi High Court, which has asked the IOA to follow the Sports Code. "I will not want to answer any question relating to a matter which is pending in a court of law. But I don't know how IOA is not following the Sports Code. The Constitution of the IOA of 2013 was approved by the government, the IOC and the OCA. After that which changes in the Code was not accepted by the IOA, I don't know. Asked about sporting relations with Pakistan, Batra said, "As far as multilateral events organised by the international federations are concerned, we have to play Pakistan. But I think it is not possible to play them in bilateral events unless the relation between the two countries are improved." "Moreover their behaviour at the border will have to improve. Everybody in India is an Indian first." When Batra was the president of Hockey India, there was an acrimonious incident between Indian and Hockey teams after a match at the 2014 Champions Trophy in Bhubaneswar and he had stopped all bilateral matches between the two countries until Pakistan made an unconditional apology. Asked about his priorities as IOA president, Batra said, "I want to work to improve the country's number of medals in Olympics and other Games, how to resolve the issues of the athletes, to bring improvement in the relationship with the government. We want to work with the government in a conducive atmosphere, they should try to know our views and we will also try to know their views so that we can work together. "The IOA will work as a team. Rajeev Mehta is an experienced hand and he is in his second term. The other members are also experienced. We will divide the duties and responsibilities among ourselves and will work as a team. There will not be a one-man show." He acknowledged that his predecessor N Ramachandran had also worked for the welfare of the athletes. Talking about the provision of 25 per cent sportspersons in the Executive Council which is required under the Sports Code, he said, "As I understand the Sports Code is applied to the NSFs and IOA is not mentioned in the Sports Code. The definition of the sportspersons will have to be elaborated. I believe sportsperson does not mean only those who have played for India. I am also a sportsperson. "When we checked we found out that more than 60 per cent of people in the present Executive Council are sportspersons." Mehta informed that the next National Games will be held in Goa next year from November 4-18. "We have guidelines for the hosting of the National Games. We have made these guidelines stricter. The National Games will be held next year in Goa from November 4-1, it has been confirmed," Mehta said. He said he had a good relation with the former president Ramachandran and hoped to have the same with Batra also. President: Narinder Batra Senior Vice-President: R K Anand Vice-President: Addille Sumariwalla, Birendra Prasad Baishya, V D Nanavati, Sudhanshu Mittal, Sunaina Kumari, K Govindraj, Kuldeep Vats, Karan Chautala Secretary General: Rajeev Mehta Treasurer: Anandeshwar Pandey Joint Secretary: S M Bali, Rakesh Gupta, Namdev Shirgaonkar, Onkar Singh, D V Sitaram Rao, Vikram Sisodia Executive Council Members: Adhip Das, Ajit Banerjee, Balbir Singh Kushwah, Digvijay Singh, Dushyant Chautala, Gurudutta Bhakta, Hemochandra Singh, V N Prasood, Rupak Debroy, Abhijt Sarkar.

Narinder Batra elected IOA chief, Rajeev Mehta secretary general

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