AIPA Appeals to PM Modi Over 18-Year Overlook of Pickleball Recognition by Sports Ministry
Title: AIPA Appeals to PM Modi for Recognition of Pickleball After 18 Years of Struggle
New Delhi, May 5 (ANI) – In a heartfelt plea, the All India Pickleball Association (AIPA) has reached out to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, urging him to address the long-standing injustice faced by the sport of pickleball in India. For the past 18 years, the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports (MYAS) has overlooked the association’s efforts to promote and develop the sport, prompting this unprecedented appeal.
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 granted in 2015 and 2020, respectively.
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." The association highlighted the transformation of pickleball from an unknown sport to one played across more than 25 states, with thousands of players, coaches, and tournaments, all thanks to the relentless efforts of its community.
The letter further criticized the recent decision by the MYAS to grant National Sports Federation (NSF) status to the Indian Pickleball Association (IPA), a body that was established merely five months ago. "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 questioned.
AIPA emphasized that this issue transcends their organization, representing a broader concern for the integrity of Indian sports. "This is not just a case of AIPA being overlooked. It’s a case of Indian sport being undermined. Years of effort are being erased by a shortcut," they lamented.
In a passionate conclusion, AIPA urged the Prime Minister to intervene and review the decision transparently, ensuring that the hard work of athletes, coaches, and associations is not sacrificed on the altar of politics. "This is not just about pickleball. This is about principle. And about the India we want to become," the letter concluded.
As the pickleball community awaits a response, the call for justice resonates not only within the sport but also among all who believe in the meritocratic spirit of Indian athletics.
