AIPA Appeals to PM Modi for Fair Recognition of Pickleball in India
AIPA Appeals to PM Modi for Pickleball Recognition Amid Controversy
New Delhi, May 6, 2025 — The All India Pickleball Association (AIPA), the oldest governing body for the sport in India, has reached out to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, urging intervention and recognition from the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports (MYAS). In a strongly worded letter sent on Sunday, AIPA condemned what it termed "ongoing injustice" in the ministry’s decision-making process regarding the official recognition of pickleball.
Founded in 2007, AIPA has been instrumental in promoting pickleball across the nation for nearly two decades. With active federations in 24 states, the association has cultivated a thriving ecosystem of players, coaches, tournaments, and volunteers. AIPA is also a founding member of the International Pickleball Federation (IPF) and the Asian Pickleball Federation (APF), receiving official affiliations in 2015 and 2020, respectively.
In its letter, AIPA expressed profound disappointment over the recent decision by the Sports Ministry to grant National Sports Federation (NSF) status to the Indian Pickleball Association (IPA), an organization established merely five months ago.
"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," the letter stated.
The association emphasized its commitment to nurturing pickleball in India "brick by brick, paddle by paddle," arguing that the government’s recognition of a newly formed body over AIPA sends a demoralizing message to the entire sporting community.
"This is not just a case of AIPA being overlooked. It’s a case of Indian sport being undermined," the letter asserted. "Years of effort are being erased by a shortcut, and trust in the system is being shattered."
AIPA called on the Prime Minister to review the decision transparently, advocating for recognition in Indian sports to be based on merit and legacy rather than influence or expediency.
"This is not just about pickleball," the letter concluded. "This is about principle. And about the India we want to become."
As the pickleball community watches closely, the outcome of this appeal could have significant implications for the future of the sport in India.
