Indian Olympic Association to Launch National Athletes’ Forum in Ahmedabad

The Indian Olympic Association is set to host its inaugural National Athletes’ Forum on January 10 in Ahmedabad, aiming to enhance athlete governance and accountability. This groundbreaking initiative will focus on critical issues such as athlete rights, mental health, and ethical governance. Current and former athletes will engage in discussions to ensure their voices are heard in shaping policies that affect their careers. PT Usha, the IOA President, emphasizes the importance of this forum in prioritizing athlete welfare. The event marks a significant step towards athlete-led reforms in Indian sports, fostering a more transparent and accountable environment.

By Narendra Chaudhary Dec 30, 2025, 16:15 IST

Introduction to the National Athletes’ Forum

New Delhi, Dec 30: The Indian Olympic Association (IOA) is set to enhance athlete governance and accountability by organizing the inaugural National Athletes’ Forum on January 10 in Ahmedabad, Gujarat.

Key Themes of the Forum

This Forum will address vital topics such as athlete rights and responsibilities, ethical governance, safe sports practices, mental health, anti-doping education, grievance mechanisms, and structured career transitions. The aim is to transform athlete feedback into practical reforms.

Engagement and Participation

Current and former athletes, along with their representatives and significant stakeholders, will gather for focused discussions aimed at finding solutions.

The IOA will soon provide details regarding participation, agenda, and speakers.

Statements from IOA Leadership

PT Usha, President of the IOA, emphasized the historic nature of this initiative, stating, "For the first time, athletes in India will have a dedicated platform to influence governance directly. This Forum marks a pivotal shift towards athlete-led reforms and accountability."

Usha further highlighted, "Achieving sustained excellence in sports requires prioritizing athlete dignity and well-being. This Forum underscores that athlete welfare is central to our policies."

Commitment to Athlete-Centered Governance

The Athletes’ Forum signifies the IOA’s dedication to ensuring athletes actively shape policies impacting their careers and welfare.

MC Mary Kom, Chair of the IOA Athletes’ Commission, remarked, “Athletes understand the system intimately. This Forum provides a vital platform for us to discuss challenges and solutions openly, ensuring our experiences inform governance.”

Sharath Kamal, Vice Chairman of the IOA Athletes’ Commission, added, “As athletes, we often feel the effects of policies long after they are made. This Forum allows us to voice our concerns before decisions are finalized, fostering a more transparent sporting environment.”

Significance of Ahmedabad as Host City

By selecting Ahmedabad, the IOA aims to enhance athlete engagement across various regions, ensuring that discussions on reform reach athletes at all levels.

The Forum is anticipated to bolster the role of the Athletes’ Commission and significantly contribute to the development of athlete-centered governance in Indian sports.