IOA Advocates for Yoga Inclusion in Asian Games

Indian Olympic Association Pushes for Yoga Inclusion in Asian Games

The Indian Olympic Association (IOA) has made a strong case for the inclusion of yoga in the Asian Games program. In a letter to Olympic Council of Asia (OCA) President Raja Randhir Singh, IOA President PT Usha highlighted the growing popularity of yoga worldwide and its significance for India as its spiritual home.

Usha emphasized the overwhelming response to the 10th International Day of Yoga on June 21, noting that people across nations have embraced yoga and experienced its benefits. She believes that India, as the birthplace of yoga, should lead the efforts to have it recognized as a sport in major international competitions.

"I am confident that as the spiritual home of yoga and as Vishwaguru, India can campaign for the inclusion of the sport in the Asian Games and eventually the Olympic Games as well," Usha stated.

She pointed out that the renowned Louvre Museum in Paris will offer yoga sessions to visitors ahead of the Olympics next month, demonstrating the growing global interest in the practice. Usha also received encouragement from Union Sports Minister Mansukh Mandaviya, who sees the inclusion of yoga in the Asian Games as a stepping stone towards its recognition in the Olympics.

"He told me that he sees the inclusion in the Asian Games would be the first step in taking the sport to the Olympics. We need our indigenous sport to be on such platforms," Usha said.

The IOA's push for yoga's inclusion in the Asian Games aligns with the government's efforts to promote yoga as a global wellness practice. The Ministry of Ayush has been actively promoting yoga through various initiatives, including the International Day of Yoga and the establishment of yoga centers worldwide.

If yoga is included in the Asian Games, it would not only raise its profile but also provide a platform for Indian yogis to showcase their skills and compete against the best in Asia. It would also contribute to the growing recognition of yoga as a legitimate sport and its potential to promote physical, mental, and spiritual well-being.

Tags: #Yoga, #AsianGames, #IOA, #PTUsha, #OlympicCouncilofAsia