AIPA Appeals to PM Modi: Urges Recognition for Pickleball After 18 Years of Overlooked Efforts
AIPA Appeals to PM Modi for Recognition of Pickleball in India
New Delhi, May 5 (ANI) — In a passionate plea for justice, the All India Pickleball Association (AIPA) has reached out to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, urging the government to recognize the sport of pickleball, which has been overlooked for nearly two decades by the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports (MYAS).
Founded in 2007, AIPA stands as the oldest and most representative governing body for pickleball in India, boasting active federations in 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 to the Prime Minister, 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 sport to one played across more than 25 states, with thousands of players, coaches, and tournaments, all thanks to the relentless efforts of AIPA and its community.
The association’s frustration was further fueled 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 questioned the implications of 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 emphasized that this issue transcends AIPA’s recognition; it reflects a broader concern about the integrity of Indian sports. "Years of effort are being erased by a shortcut. Trust in the system is being shattered," they wrote. AIPA urged the Prime Minister to intervene, calling for a transparent review of the decision and advocating for the principles of merit and hard work in Indian sports.
"This is not just about pickleball. This is about principle. And about the India we want to become," the letter concluded, echoing the sentiments of countless athletes and supporters who believe in a fair and just sporting landscape.
As the pickleball community awaits a response, the call for recognition highlights the ongoing struggle for equity and fairness in Indian sports, a narrative that resonates far beyond the court.
