India’s Apex Body for Pickleball Receives Official Government Recognition
Landmark Achievement for the Indian Pickleball Association (IPA)
India’s Apex Body for Pickleball Receives Official Government Recognition
New Delhi, May 1 — In a significant boost for the sport, the Indian Pickleball Association (IPA) has been officially recognized by the Government of India through the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports. This landmark decision designates the IPA as the national sports federation responsible for governing, promoting, and developing pickleball across the country.
This recognition not only validates the IPA as the sole apex body for pickleball in India but also marks a pivotal moment in the sport’s journey on both national and global stages. With a dedicated community and meticulous groundwork laid by its members, the IPA is poised to embark on an ambitious mission: to create a thriving ecosystem for pickleball that emphasizes access, excellence, and opportunity.
Building a National Ecosystem
The IPA envisions a robust sporting landscape with a target of 100,000 active registered players participating in events and national-level competitions across all age groups. Key initiatives include grassroots development programs and the establishment of National High-Performance Centres for elite training, enhancing the existing infrastructure.
A major focus for the IPA is youth development, which encompasses training, officiating, and creating professional pathways. The association is actively working to integrate pickleball into schools, aligning with initiatives like the Khelo India Women’s Pickleball Cup to promote gender inclusion. Additionally, the IPA plans to host international coaching conferences and nationwide certification programs for referees and coaches, fostering employment opportunities and structured growth.
Showcasing Competitive Spirit
The IPA’s impact was evident during the IPA Nationals held in January 2025 at Bennett University, Greater Noida, which attracted over 500 players from more than 20 states. The tournament featured 14 international-standard courts, highlighting the rising competitive standards in Indian pickleball.
Earlier, the IPA-sanctioned PWR DUPR India Masters 2024 at DLTA Stadium in New Delhi garnered global attention, drawing players from around the world. The association also organized clinics and coaching programs led by top international players, including APP World #1 Megan Fudge DeHeart and APP World #5 Ryler DeHeart, showcasing its commitment to bringing world-class expertise to India.
A Vision for the Future
“This recognition is a historic milestone — but more importantly, it is a mandate to act,” stated Suryaveer Singh Bhullar, President of the IPA. “We are committed to building a world-class sporting structure for pickleball in India. Our mission is clear: talent identification, equitable access, professional training, and global competitiveness — winning medals for India at both junior and pro levels.”
Bhullar emphasized the collective experience of the current IPA team, which includes individuals who have represented India at prestigious events like the Olympics, Asian Games, and Commonwealth Games. This wealth of expertise is seen as a crucial asset for the growth of pickleball in India.
As the IPA embarks on this exciting journey, the future of pickleball in India looks promising, with aspirations to make it one of the most popular sports in the country.
