Indian Olympic Association to Host First National Athletes' Forum in 2026

The Indian Olympic Association is set to host its inaugural National Athletes' Forum on January 10, 2026, in Ahmedabad, Gujarat. This groundbreaking initiative aims to empower athletes by allowing them to play a significant role in shaping policies that affect their careers and welfare. With a focus on athlete rights, ethical governance, and mental health, the Forum will facilitate direct engagement among current and former athletes and key stakeholders. PT Usha, the IOA President, emphasizes the importance of athlete welfare in policy-making. The event marks a pivotal shift towards athlete-led reform in Indian sports, promising to enhance governance and accountability across the sporting ecosystem.

By Narendra Chaudhary Dec 30, 2025, 14:50 IST

Introduction to the National Athletes' Forum

In a significant step towards enhancing athlete governance and accountability in Indian sports, the Indian Olympic Association (IOA) has announced the inaugural National Athletes' Forum, scheduled for January 10, 2026, in Ahmedabad, Gujarat.

Commitment to Athlete Engagement

The Athletes' Forum signifies the IOA's dedication to moving beyond mere consultation, empowering athletes to take an active role in shaping policies that impact their careers and welfare. This event will gather current and former athletes, their representatives, and key stakeholders nationwide for direct, solution-focused discussions.

A Shift Towards Athlete-Centric Governance

PT Usha, President of the IOA, emphasized the historical significance of this initiative, stating, "For the first time in India's sports history, athletes will unite through a dedicated national forum to influence governance directly. This Forum marks a pivotal shift towards athlete-led reform and accountability."

Usha further highlighted the importance of athlete welfare, asserting, "Achieving sustained excellence in sports requires prioritizing athlete dignity, safety, and well-being. This Forum underscores that athlete welfare is central to policy-making, not an afterthought."

Core Themes of the Forum

The Forum will address essential topics such as athlete rights and responsibilities, ethical governance, safe sport practices, mental health, anti-doping education, grievance resolution, and structured career transition pathways. The discussions aim to transform athlete feedback into actionable reforms.

Support from the Athletes' Commission

MC Marykom, Chair of the IOA Athletes' Commission, remarked, "Athletes understand the system intimately. This Forum provides a credible platform for us to discuss challenges and solutions openly, ensuring that athlete experiences are integrated into governance and reform efforts."

Sharath Kamal, Vice Chairman of the IOA Athletes' Commission, added, "As athletes, we often feel the effects of policies long after decisions are made. This Forum changes that dynamic, allowing us to voice our concerns before decisions are finalized, fostering a more transparent and accountable sporting environment."

Expanding Governance Across Regions

Choosing Ahmedabad as the venue reflects the IOA's goal to enhance athlete engagement across various regions, ensuring that reform discussions reach athletes at all levels. The Athletes' Forum is anticipated to bolster the role of the Athletes' Commission and significantly contribute to the development of athlete-centered governance in Indian sports.

Further information regarding participation, agenda, and speakers will be provided in due course.