New Delhi: Yoga has got approval of the Olympic Council of Asia’s executive board and now needs a nod from its general assembly to be included to the Asian Games’ events programme.
This was announced by Indian Olympic Association president PT Usha, who also informed that the OCA’s acting president Randhir Singh apprised her of the development, making it the first step for yoga to be included as a medal sport in the continental event.
“I am delighted that the OCA Executive Board spontaneously agreed to India’s request to give yoga the recognition it deserves. The proposal shall now move through the Sports Committee to the General Assembly for confirmation,” Usha said in an IOA statement issued on Monday.
Usha also expressed her gratitude to Singh for extending “unflinching support” for yoga to be included into the Asiad as a competitive sport.
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As yoga is widely practiced worldwide, the IOA hopes that it would be accepted for inclusion in the events charter.
Usha said that since yoga has already received global recognition. it as only natural for the Asian Games to embrace it.
“It has a universal appeal and people around the world have embraced yoga and drawn benefits,” the former athlete said, while acknowledging the efforts of new sports minister Mansukh Mandaviya before the OCA meeting.
“When we make a collective effort, led by the Prime Minister himself, we can achieve success seamlessly. I am glad India’s effort to have yoga included in the biggest celebrations of sport is finding resonance.”
Usha had initially taken efforts for yoga’s inclusion that was later backed up by Mandaviya, saying: “”It is only fair that in keeping with its wide popularity, yoga becomes a competitive sport and is in the Asian Games.”
The sports ministry had earlier recognised Yogasana Bharat for promotion and development of Yogasana as a competitive sport in the country.
As yoga is widely practiced worldwide, the Indian Olympic Association hopes that it would be accepted for inclusion in the Asian Games events charter. Other Sports Sports News: Latest Cricket News, Cricket Live Score, Sports Breaking News from Sports Today
