Daijiworld Media Network- New Delhi

New Delhi, May 2: In a defining moment for Indian sport, the Indian Pickleball Association (IPA) has secured official recognition from the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports, Government of India, formally establishing it as the national sports federation to govern, promote, and develop pickleball across the country.

This landmark approval positions IPA as the sole apex body for pickleball in India, ushering in a new era of structured growth for the fast-emerging sport. The recognition is not just symbolic — it is a green signal to build a pan-India sporting ecosystem rooted in grassroots outreach, elite training, and global ambition.

The IPA, backed by a passionate and growing community, now steps into the spotlight with an ambitious roadmap: creating access and excellence across the nation. With a vision of engaging over 1 lakh registered players and conducting national-level competitions across age groups, the IPA aims to embed pickleball in schools, communities, and sports academies.

One of the cornerstones of the IPA’s plan is youth development — identifying talent early, providing professional training and pathways, and offering nationwide certification for referees and coaches. The association is aligning with initiatives like the Khelo India Women’s Pickleball Cup and championing gender inclusion to ensure holistic sporting development.

“This recognition is a historic milestone — but more importantly, it is a mandate to act,” declared Suryaveer Singh Bhullar, President of IPA. “We’re building a sporting future where Indian pickleball players can compete and win on the global stage — in both junior and pro categories.”

Highlighting the IPA’s momentum, the Nationals held in January 2025 at Bennett University, Greater Noida, saw participation from over 500 athletes representing more than 20 Indian states. Played on 14 international-standard courts, the tournament marked a new benchmark in Indian pickleball’s competitive journey.

Earlier in 2024, the IPA’s flagship event — the PWR DUPR India Masters held at DLTA Stadium, New Delhi — brought international visibility to the sport in India. With global players participating and world-class clinics led by APP World #1 Megan Fudge DeHeart and #5 Ryler DeHeart, the event showcased India’s growing appeal as a serious pickleball destination.

“The team behind IPA is our strength,” Bhullar added. “We’ve all been athletes, coaches, or administrators — having served India at Olympics, Asian Games, and Commonwealth Games. We know what it takes to build champions.”

With government recognition now in hand, the IPA is ready to serve, rally, and smash its way into India’s sporting mainstream.