Yoga to Be Included in 2026 Asian Games as Demonstrative Sport.

A new chapter in sports history unfolds as officials approve Yoga as a demonstrative sport for the 2026 Asian Games. This significant announcement was made by the newly elected President of the Olympic Council of Asia (OCA) on Sunday.

Raja Randhir Singh, a former Indian shooter and long-standing sports administrator, made history by becoming the first Indian President of the OCA. His election, unopposed, took place during the 44th OCA General Assembly held at Bharat Mandapam, Pragati Maidan in New Delhi.OCA representatives unanimously selected Singh earlier this year as the sole candidate for the prestigious role.

During his address at the General Assembly, Singh sought the support of member nations to include Yoga in the Asian Games as a demonstrative sport. No one opposed his request, prompting him to express his gratitude by saying, “Thank you for all your support.”

India Champions Yoga’s Inclusion in Asian Games, Aims for Global Sporting Events

Singh had earlier voiced his ambition to include Yoga, a practice deeply rooted in Indian tradition, in the Asian Games. He noted that the OCA Sports Committee and Executive Board had already endorsed the proposal, and the General Assembly in New Delhi would be the final step in securing its inclusion.

“Yoga is an Indian sport, and our Sports Committee and Executive Board have already approved its proposal for inclusion. On Sunday, we will present this at the General Assembly, and we are hopeful that Yoga will become part of the upcoming Asian Games,” Singh had shared with IANS prior to the event.

In addition to this monumental announcement, India’s Sports Minister, Mansukh Mandaviya. Revealed further ambitious plans for India’s future in global sports. Speaking at the event, he highlighted India’s successful history of hosting major international events like the Commonwealth Games, Cricket World Cups, and the recent G20 Summit.

Looking ahead, Mandaviya announced India’s intention to bid for the Youth Olympics in 2030 and the Summer Olympics in 2036. “We aim to welcome athletes and officials from across the globe with open arms, offering them world-class hospitality and ensuring their experience in India becomes a cherished memory,” he said.

These bold initiatives reflect India’s growing commitment to becoming a leading player in the global sports arena.