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Indian Olympic Association Pushes for Yoga Inclusion in Asian GamesThe 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.

India's ambitious bid to host the 2036 Olympic Games is gaining momentum, with sports administrators preparing to lobby hard during the upcoming Paris Olympics 2024. The Mission Olympic Cell (MOC) of the Sports Authority of India has submitted a detailed report to Sports Minister Mansukh Mandaviya, outlining the measures necessary for a successful bid.The report identifies six disciplines for potential inclusion in the 2036 Olympics if India's bid is successful: yoga, kho kho, kabaddi, chess, T20 cricket, and squash. These indigenous sports would not only enhance India's medal chances but also showcase the country's rich sporting heritage.However, the road ahead is not without challenges. India will need to extend support to other nations to ensure that these sports have a global presence. The proposed events will first need to be introduced as demonstration events in the 2032 Brisbane Games before receiving final approval.The MOC has also identified the need to address doping, increase accountability in national federations, and attract private investment in sports. India will face stiff competition from countries like Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and China for the hosting rights.Despite the challenges, the MOC is confident in India's ability to prepare for the bid. The inclusion of indigenous sports would not only boost India's medal tally but also promote the country's cultural identity on a global stage.