PV Sindhu, Harmanpreet Singh Take Up Key Roles in IOA Athletes’ Commission

Andhra Pradesh Sports Minister M. Ramprasad Reddy has welcomed badminton star PV Sindhu’s election as Chairperson of the Indian Olympic Association (IOA) Athletes’ Commission, describing her appointment as a proud moment for Indian sports. The minister extended his special congratulations to Sindhu, who has brought international recognition to the country through her achievements on the badminton court.

Ramprasad Reddy also congratulated Indian hockey team captain Harmanpreet Singh on being elected Vice-Chairperson of the IOA Athletes’ Commission. He said the selection of prominent sportspersons for key positions in the country's Olympic administration reflected the growing recognition of athletes' contributions beyond their performances on the field.

The minister particularly welcomed the selection of weightlifting champion Mirabai Chanu and swimmer Sajan Prakash as athlete representatives in the IOA General Body. He said their inclusion would provide an important platform for experienced sportspersons to contribute to discussions and decisions concerning the future of Indian sports.

Highlighting the significance of athletes taking up leadership responsibilities, Ramprasad Reddy said it was encouraging to see individuals who had represented India at international competitions entrusted with important roles in sports administration. Their firsthand experience, understanding of sporting challenges and knowledge of the requirements of athletes would help strengthen the country's sporting ecosystem, he observed.

He expressed confidence that athlete-led leadership would bring greater focus to the needs of sportspersons and contribute to the overall development of Indian sports. Such representation, he added, could encourage more athletes to participate in decision-making processes and help create a stronger sporting environment.

The minister further said the Andhra Pradesh government was committed to promoting sports and nurturing emerging talent under the leadership of Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu and the guidance of Minister Nara Lokesh. The government was according special attention to strengthening the sports sector and creating better opportunities for aspiring athletes.

He emphasised that the state's objective was to identify and encourage sporting talent from village-level competitions to international platforms. Providing the necessary support and opportunities to promising sportspersons, irrespective of their background, would remain central to the government's efforts to develop a stronger sporting culture in Andhra Pradesh, he added.