Sports Ministry recognizes Yogasana as competitive sports discipline
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Yogasana was recognized as a competitive sport by the Ministry of AYUSH (Ayurveda, Yoga & Naturopathy, Unani, Siddha and Homoeopathy) and the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports with the objective of increasing worldwide interest in Yoga and the ultimate aim of making it an Olympic sport. The Minister of AYUSH Shripad Naik spoke according to ANI about the origins of Yoga as a sport in ancient India announcing the decision.
He further stated that although yoga competitions are already being conducted at present, there is no proper structure in order to make them known. He also clarified that the decision was not a sudden one but one that has arisen out of more than 3 years of consulation with stakeholders in the yoga sector.
‘This is the beginning of a long journey’ – Kiren Rijiju
Announcing the decision to include yogasana as a competitive sport, Sports Minister Kiren Rijiju released a statement saying, “We are planning to include Yogasana as a sport discipline in Khelo India and in the University Games and we will also pitch it at the National Games but the aim and objective of any sport is to be included in Olympics and this is a beginning of a long journey.”
Shripad Naik also released a statement saying, “Yogasana becoming a sport will also ensure new technologies and new strategies being inducted into the disciplines, to benefit our athletes and officials towards building fruitful and fulfilling careers in this field.”
The following events have been proposed: Traditional Yogasana, Artistic Yogasana (Single), Artistic Yogasana (Pair), Rhythmic Yogasana (Pair), Free Flow/Group Yogasana, Individual All Round — Championship and Team Championship.
Also Read: “Our para-athletes are our strength and they give us inspiration,” says Sports Minister Kiren Rijiju
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Nevin Clinton
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