For some, the idea of yoga being included in the Olympic Games might seem unlikely. However, India’s sports administrators see it differently. As India ramps up its efforts to host the 2036 Olympics, it is expected to push for yoga, an important part of its cultural heritage, to be part of the sports programme.
Yoga is one of six sports that the Mission Olympics Cell (MOC), which operates under the Sports Ministry, is considering for Olympic inclusion. The other five sports are Twenty20 cricket, kabaddi, chess, squash, and kho kho.
Discussions about adding these sports started in December last year, shortly after Prime Minister Narendra Modi officially announced India’s interest in hosting the 2036 Olympics during an MOC meeting. This cell includes well-known former athletes, senior federation officials, and representatives from the Sports Ministry and the Sports Authority of India.
A six-page summary of recommendations for the 2036 Olympics, reviewed by The Indian Express, highlights the need to create a safe environment through awareness sessions on the Prevention of Sexual Harassment (PoSH) and the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences Act (POCSO). It also stresses the importance of fighting doping, increasing federation accountability, focusing on grassroots development, training coaches and referees, and improving infrastructure.
The summary also notes that a separate committee will look into new sports that could be proposed for inclusion in the 2036 Games, based on India’s strengths and the historical significance of these sports in the country.
The International Olympic Committee (IOC) allows the host city of each Olympics to suggest adding sports that are popular locally. For example, karate was included in the Tokyo Games, and flag football will feature in the Los Angeles Games, though it’s not well-known worldwide. To be added to the Olympics, a sport must have an international federation recognised by the IOC. Next month, during the Paris Olympics, yoga classes will be held as an exhibition at the Louvre.
Several countries are interested in hosting the 2036 Olympics, the next available slot. The 2024 Olympics will be in Paris, followed by Los Angeles in 2028 and Brisbane in 2032.
The IOC has started talks with the Indian Olympic Association and the Sports Ministry, but a decision on the host city won’t be made for at least a year or two.
India is working hard to win the bid. The 2036 Olympic bid is mentioned in the BJP’s election plans, showing the government’s commitment. Next month, in Paris, India will set up an ‘India House’ to impress top IOC members and promote its bid.
The Mission Olympics Cell (MOC) is also focusing on other important areas to prepare for the 2036 Games, especially tackling doping. India is high on the World Anti-Doping Agency’s list of offenders, so the MOC suggests frequent and surprise doping tests, investing in top-notch laboratories, and protecting whistleblowers.
Additionally, they recommend a large campaign to educate athletes, coaches, parents, and sports officials about the dangers of doping.