The Indian Olympic Association (IOA) on Wednesday, September 3, welcomed the decision of the International Olympic Committee (IOC) to fully restore its partnership through Solidarity Olympic Programs and described the end of the 11 -month suspension of financing that threatened sports preparations for India.
The development comes after the turbulent year for IOA, which recorded IOC suspension in October 2024 in the middle of internal disputes and administration. At that time, the correspondence to President IOA PT Usha at that time quoted IOC director James Macleod “ongoing internal disputes and management problems” within the IOA Executive Board and noted that the situation has created “a lot of uncertainty” and guaranteed suspension of Solidarity Olympic payments and developed direct athletes’ scholarships.
The suspension was launched by a bitter public fall between USHA and IOA Executive Board members, supported by non -compliance with its appointment Raghuram Iyer as the CEO of IOA on the reported monthly salary of RS 20 Lakh. USha then blamed the blame on the treasurer IOA and the Chief of the Federation in India Sahdev Yadav for the organization of the dead end.
Wednesday’s IOC announcement signals the turn of Indian sport happiness. In a letter addressed to President IOA IOC, “Positive Measures were taken by IOA and the Indian Government to strengthen the sports ecosystem and the support of athletes at all levels, from local to elite”. She found two key reforms that promote renewal: formal appointment of Raghuram Iyer as the General Director of IOA and the government’s adoption of the National Sports Act, which IoC described as a key laying of a stronger foundation for Sport in India.
PT Usha welcomes movement
With Solidarity Olympic programs back on the spot, Indian athletes have the most beneficial. Renewed support is expected to provide major opportunities for funding and developing for training, preparation and participation in the Olympic Games and other major international competitions.
Usha welcomed the renewal as a landmark for Indian sport.
“This reflects our joint commitment – from IOA to the Indian government, according to new and transformation sports legislation – to maintain the highest standards of administration in sports,” Usha said. “Together we form a strong and promising future for Indian athletes. This renewed partnership with IOC will play a crucial role in helping our athletes to realize their Olympic aspirations. We sincerely thank IOC for its lasting confidence, support and management.”
IOA reaffirmed its obligation to cooperate in a close partnership with IOC further strengthen the Olympic movement in India and ensure permanent support for athletes across disciplines.
Restoration of financing and partnerships comes at a critical moment, with Indian preparations intensified for the upcoming international competitions, including Asian games 2026 and Olympic Games in Los Angeles 2028.
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Published:
Akshay Ramesh
Published on:
3 September 2025
