AIPA Appeals to PM Modi: Urges Recognition for Pickleball After 18 Years of Overlooked Efforts
AIPA Appeals to PM Modi: Call for Justice in Pickleball Recognition
New Delhi, May 5 (ANI) — In a heartfelt plea, the All India Pickleball Association (AIPA) has reached out to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, voicing their concerns over the long-standing neglect of pickleball’s recognition by the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports (MYAS). The letter, sent on Sunday, underscores a perceived injustice that has persisted for 18 years, leaving the sport and its dedicated community feeling overlooked.
Founded in 2007, AIPA stands as the oldest and most representative governing body for pickleball in India, boasting active federations across 24 states. The association has been instrumental in the sport’s growth, becoming a founding member of both the International Pickleball Federation (IPF) and the Asian Pickleball Federation (APF), with official affiliations established in 2015 and 2020.
In their letter, AIPA expressed deep disappointment, stating, "Respected Prime Minister, we write this letter not just as members of AIPA, but as citizens who believe in merit, justice, and the idea of India as a sporting nation built on hard work, not political preferences." They highlighted the transformation of pickleball from an obscure pastime to a vibrant sport played in over 25 states, supported by thousands of players, coaches, and tournaments—all thanks to the relentless efforts of AIPA and its community.
However, the association’s optimism has been dampened by the MYAS’s recent decision to grant National Sports Federation (NSF) status to the newly formed Indian Pickleball Association (IPA), which was established just five months ago. AIPA’s letter questioned the rationale behind this decision, asking, "Is this the message we wish to send to the sporting world—that merit doesn’t matter, and sweat can be tuned by influence?"
The letter further emphasized that this situation transcends AIPA’s recognition; it represents a broader issue of undermining Indian sports. "Years of effort are being erased by a shortcut," they lamented, urging the Prime Minister to intervene and ensure that the principles of merit and hard work are upheld in Indian sports.
AIPA concluded their letter with a heartfelt appeal: "This is not just about Pickleball. This is about principle. And about the India we want to become." As the pickleball community awaits a response, the call for justice resonates, echoing the hopes of countless athletes and supporters dedicated to the sport’s future in India.
