Minister for Youth Affairs & Sports and Labour & Employment, Mansukh Mandaviya, has voiced his strong support for the inclusion of Yoga in the Asian Games. The Indian Olympic Association (IOA) President, Dr. PT Usha, recently proposed this initiative to the Olympic Council of Asia (OCA).

In a letter to OCA President Raja Randhir Singh dated June 26, Dr. Usha highlighted the growing global popularity of Yoga and its potential as a competitive sport. Mandaviya praised this move, stating, “It is only fair that in keeping with its wide popularity, Yoga becomes a competitive sport and is in the Asian Games.”

Mandaviya emphasized the efforts of Prime Minister Narendra Modi in promoting Yoga on the international stage, particularly through the annual celebration of International Yoga Day on June 21. “The discipline, which embraces mind and body, has gained in popularity around the world and is ready as a competitive sport with its own code of points and distinct events,” he said.

India has been a pioneer in transforming Yoga into a competitive sport, beginning with its inclusion in the Khelo India Youth Games. This initiative has seen great success and encouraged a growing number of Yoga practitioners. The popularity of the sport has led to its inclusion in the schedule of the National Games as well.

The Government of India has been actively promoting Yoga as both a competitive sport and a holistic approach to healthy living. The Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports has officially recognized Yogasana Bharat, supporting the development of Yogasana as a competitive discipline in the country. Since 2020, Yogasana has been a part of the Khelo India Youth Games and the Khelo India University Games.

Furthermore, the Asian Yogasana, a body recognized by the World Yogasana, has already sought affiliation with the OCA to develop Yogasana as a competitive sport across the continent. This move aligns with the government's vision of making Yoga a global competitive discipline.

As the proposal awaits consideration, Mandaviya’s endorsement reflects a significant step towards realizing Yoga’s potential as a recognized sport in international competitions, marking a new chapter in its global journey.