In a recent decision taken by the Indian Olympic Association (IOA), a National Athletes’ Forum will be held for the first time on January 10, 2026, in Ahmedabad, Gujarat. The move marks a big step towards the growth of Indian sport. The platform will feature both former and current athletes, key stakeholders, as well as athlete representatives coming from across the country.
Through the introduction of the Athletes’ Forum, IOA commits to ensure that athletes have a big part in policies that cater to and affect their respective careers and for their welfare, and as well as for the future.
President IOA, Dr PT Usha, made the announcement of the initiative and addressed it as a landmark moment for sports athletes. She said, “This is the first time in India’s sporting history that athletes are being brought together through a dedicated national forum to directly influence governance. Athlete voices can no longer be peripheral-this Forum signals a decisive shift towards athlete-led reform, accountability, and shared decision-making.”
Meanwhile, IOA Athletes Commission Vice Chairman Mr Sharath Kamal shared his perspective on the initiative as a mode for athletes to have a fair chance on the choice and selections made about their career.
He stated, “As athletes, we often feel the impact of policies long after decisions are made. This Forum changes that equation. It allows athletes to be heard at the right time-before decisions are taken-and helps build a more transparent and accountable sporting ecosystem.”
Ms. MC Marykom believes that the Forum offers athletes to openly share their perspectives and provide solutions to any forthcoming challenges while ensuring that their experiences are reform and well governed.
The Forum will cater to athletes’ benefits, including their rights and responsibilities, maintaining an ethical and transparent governance including their integrity, mental health, and well-being. It also caters to anti-doping education, providing pathways for career transition. Meanwhile, the discussions conducted will be centred on taking immediate action on athlete feedback.
The Athletes Forum will, however, be a major boon to its Athletes’ Commission while contributing towards the introduction of governance led by athletes in Indian sport.
Members of the IOA Athletes’ Commission
IOA President: PT Usha
Chairperson: MC Mary Kom (Boxing)
Vice Chairperson: Sharath Kaml (Table Tennis)
Other Members: PV Sindhu (Badminton), Mirabai Chanu (Weightlifting), Gagan Narang (Shooting), Shiva Keshavan (Luge), Rani Rampal (Hockey), Bhavani Devi (Fencing), Bajrang Lal (Rowing), Om Prakash Karhana (Shot Put), Abhinav Bindra (Shooting), Saina Nehwal (Badminton)
