The Sports Ministry has initiated a fresh application process for a national Yogasana federation, setting a September 17 deadline. This follows a Delhi High Court ruling that quashed the recognition of Yogasana Bharat and mandated a new affiliation procedure. Eligible bodies must submit detailed applications, adhering to the National Sports Governance Act, which includes specific requirements for executive committee composition.
The first-ever World Yogasana Championships 2026 are set to begin in Ahmedabad, featuring over 400 athletes from more than 60 countries.
Yogasana, the ancient Indian practice, is aiming to become a global sport and secure a place in the 2036 Olympics, with India hoping to host the Games in Ahmedabad. The sport has already been included in this year's Asian Games as a demonstration sport and is eyeing the 2030 Commonwealth Games. World Yogasana is working to meet the IOC's requirements for recognition, focusing on expanding its global reach and adhering to anti-doping standards.
A team of yoga athletes from the United States is heading to India to participate in the maiden World Yogasana Championship to be held in Ahmedabad from June 4 to 8.
The Yoga Federation of India (YFI) announced its intention to seek recognition from the Sports Ministry and the Indian Olympic Association (IOA) following a Delhi High Court decision. The court set aside Yogasana Bharat's national federation status, mandating a fresh affiliation process. YFI plans to meet with IOA President P T Usha and Union Minister Dr Mansukh Mandaviya to present its vision for Yogasana development.
Dr. Jaideep Arya, Secretary General of World Yogasana and Yogasana Bharat, states that Prime Minister Narendra Modi's support has significantly boosted Yogasana's bid for Olympic recognition. He highlights the efforts to rebrand Yogasana as a competitive sport for younger generations and its accessibility, despite challenges like geopolitical tensions affecting participation.
Sports Minister Mansukh Mandaviya said Yogasana would be pushed for inclusion in the future Olympic Games roster keeping in mind India's bid to host the 2036 Games.
'I want to say to my Muslim friends that if they want to free Islam from the curse of terrorism, they have to embrace spirituality and yoga helps that. Yoga promotes serenity.'
Commonwealth Sport president Donald Rukare expressed satisfaction with India's preparations for the 2030 Commonwealth Games in Ahmedabad, following a multi-city review of venues and infrastructure.
The Yoga Federation of India contended that the recognition granted to the National Yogasana Sports Federation is arbitrary and suffers from malafide intentions.
Sports Ministry formally recognises yogasana as competitive sport.
Except for shooting, a major Olympic sport, most of the top stars in other disciplines will give the National Games a miss.
If approved, yoga could debut as a demonstration sport in the 2026 Games in Nagoya, Japan, marking a significant milestone in its journey from a spiritual practice to a recognised competitive discipline.
The four selected games represent different parts of the country.
