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3 Feb 2026·Source: The Hindu
5 min
SportsNEWS

Athletics Federation of India Prioritizes Asian Games 2026

AFI to focus on Asian Games, limited participation in Commonwealth Games.

Athletics Federation of India Prioritizes Asian Games 2026

Photo by Jen Loong

The Athletics Federation of India (AFI) will focus on the Asian Games this year. A limited number of athletes will participate in the Commonwealth Games. Anju Bobby George said the 65th National inter-State championships in Bhubaneswar will serve as the final trials for the Asian Games.

The 29th National Senior Athletics Federation competition in Ranchi will act as the final selection for the Glasgow Commonwealth Games. India will participate in the World Relays in Botswana in May. The AFI has revised the domestic calendar and announced guidelines for competing in the National Inter-State meet.

Key Facts

1.

Focus: Asian Games

2.

Event: 65th National inter-State championships

3.

Location: Bhubaneswar

4.

Event: 29th National Senior Athletics Federation competition

5.

Location: Ranchi

UPSC Exam Angles

1.

GS Paper III: Sports-related policies and institutions

2.

GS Paper II: Government policies and interventions for development of various sectors

3.

Potential questions on the role of sports federations in promoting sports

Visual Insights

Key Events Leading to Asian Games 2026 Focus

Timeline of events influencing AFI's decision to prioritize the Asian Games 2026.

The AFI's decision reflects a strategic focus on maximizing India's medal potential in the Asian Games, while still maintaining a presence at the Commonwealth Games.

  • 2022Commonwealth Games held in Birmingham, England
  • 2022 (delayed to 2023)Asian Games held in Hangzhou, China
  • May 2026World Relays in Botswana
  • 202665th National Inter-State Championships in Bhubaneswar (Final Trials for Asian Games)
  • 202629th National Senior Athletics Federation Competition in Ranchi (Final Selection for Commonwealth Games)
  • 2026Asian Games in Aichi-Nagoya, Japan
  • 2026Commonwealth Games in Victoria, Australia
More Information

Background

The Athletics Federation of India (AFI) plays a crucial role in promoting and regulating athletics in India. Its origins can be traced back to the pre-independence era when various regional athletic associations existed. After independence, the need for a unified national body was felt to coordinate and develop athletics across the country. This led to the formation of the AFI, which got affiliated to World Athletics (formerly IAAF). The AFI is responsible for selecting national teams, organizing national championships, and implementing policies to improve the standard of athletics in India. Over the years, the AFI has evolved to adapt to the changing landscape of sports. It has focused on talent identification, coaching development, and infrastructure improvement. The federation has also worked to promote athletics at the grassroots level through various initiatives and programs. The AFI's efforts have contributed to India's growing presence in international athletics competitions, including the Olympic Games and the Asian Games. The federation also has to adhere to the guidelines set by the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports. The AFI's functioning is governed by its constitution and rules, which are aligned with the regulations of World Athletics. The federation has a hierarchical structure with various committees and officials responsible for different aspects of athletics development. The AFI also works closely with state athletic associations to implement its programs and policies at the state level. The federation's activities are funded through various sources, including government grants, sponsorships, and membership fees. In recent years, the AFI has also focused on promoting ethical practices and combating doping in athletics. It has implemented strict anti-doping measures and works closely with the National Anti-Doping Agency (NADA) to ensure fair play and integrity in the sport. The federation also conducts awareness programs to educate athletes about the dangers of doping and the importance of ethical conduct.

Latest Developments

In recent years, the Athletics Federation of India (AFI) has been focusing on improving its performance in major international events. This includes a greater emphasis on specialized training programs and exposure to international competitions. The AFI has also been working to strengthen its grassroots development programs to identify and nurture young talent. The focus on the Asian Games 2026 reflects a strategic decision to prioritize events where India has a higher chance of success. The AFI's decision to send a limited number of athletes to the Commonwealth Games indicates a shift in priorities. This could be due to various factors, including resource allocation and the assessment of medal prospects. The emphasis on the National Inter-State Championships as the final trials for the Asian Games highlights the importance of domestic competitions in the selection process. The AFI is also keen on ensuring that athletes meet the required qualification standards for international events. Looking ahead, the AFI is expected to continue its efforts to improve the overall standard of athletics in India. This includes investing in infrastructure, coaching, and scientific support for athletes. The federation is also likely to focus on promoting athletics in schools and colleges to create a wider talent pool. The AFI's long-term goal is to make India a major force in international athletics and to win more medals at the Olympic Games and other prestigious events. The success of initiatives like the Khelo India program will be crucial in achieving these goals. The participation in the World Relays in Botswana is a significant step towards improving India's performance in relay events. Relay events are often a source of medals at major international competitions, and the AFI is keen to develop strong relay teams. The revised domestic calendar and guidelines for the National Inter-State meet are aimed at ensuring that athletes are well-prepared for the Asian Games and other important events.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What are the key facts about the Athletics Federation of India's (AFI) priorities for Prelims?

For Prelims, remember that the AFI is prioritizing the Asian Games. The 65th National inter-State championships in Bhubaneswar will be the final trials for the Asian Games. India will have limited participation in the Commonwealth Games.

Exam Tip

Focus on the events and locations mentioned in the news. Often, prelims questions test your awareness of current sports events and their venues.

2. What is the main focus of the Athletics Federation of India (AFI) currently, and why is this important?

The AFI is currently focusing on the Asian Games 2026. This is important because success in the Asian Games can improve India's standing in international athletics and boost the morale of athletes and the nation.

3. How does the AFI's focus on the Asian Games affect India's participation in the Commonwealth Games?

The AFI's focus on the Asian Games means that India will have limited participation in the Commonwealth Games. Resources and athletes will be prioritized for the Asian Games.

4. What is the significance of the 65th National inter-State championships in Bhubaneswar?

The 65th National inter-State championships in Bhubaneswar will serve as the final trials for the Asian Games team selection. Performance in this event will be crucial for athletes hoping to represent India at the Asian Games.

5. Why is the Athletics Federation of India (AFI) in the news recently?

The AFI is in the news because it has announced its priorities for the upcoming major events, with a focus on the Asian Games and limited participation in the Commonwealth Games. They have also revised the domestic calendar.

6. What are the recent developments regarding the AFI's plans for international competitions?

Recent developments include the AFI's decision to prioritize the Asian Games, limit participation in the Commonwealth Games, participate in the World Relays in Botswana, and revise the domestic calendar. The 29th National Senior Athletics Federation competition in Ranchi will act as the final selection for the Glasgow Commonwealth Games.

7. What are the pros and cons of AFI prioritizing one event over another, such as Asian Games over Commonwealth Games?

Prioritizing one event allows for focused resource allocation and training, potentially leading to better performance in the chosen event (Asian Games). However, it may lead to reduced opportunities and morale for athletes who would have participated in the other event (Commonwealth Games).

8. How might the AFI's decision to focus on the Asian Games impact common citizens?

Success in the Asian Games can bring national pride and inspire young people to take up sports. It can also lead to increased government and public support for athletics. Conversely, a lack of success might lead to disappointment.

9. Who is Anju Bobby George, and what is her role in the current AFI strategy?

As per the topic, Anju Bobby George is mentioned in relation to the 65th National inter-State championships in Bhubaneswar serving as the final trials for the Asian Games. Her specific role is not detailed in the provided information, but she is likely involved in the decision-making process.

10. What is the historical background of the Athletics Federation of India (AFI)?

The AFI's origins can be traced back to the pre-independence era when various regional athletic associations existed. After independence, the need for a unified national body was felt to coordinate and develop athletics across the country, leading to the formation of the AFI.

Practice Questions (MCQs)

1. Consider the following statements regarding the Athletics Federation of India (AFI): 1. The AFI is primarily focused on the Commonwealth Games, with the Asian Games being a secondary priority. 2. The 65th National Inter-State Championships in Bhubaneswar will serve as the final trials for the Asian Games. 3. The 29th National Senior Athletics Federation competition in Ranchi will act as the final selection for the World Athletics Championships. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

  • A.1 only
  • B.2 only
  • C.1 and 3 only
  • D.2 and 3 only
Show Answer

Answer: B

Statement 1 is INCORRECT: The AFI is prioritizing the Asian Games, not the Commonwealth Games, as stated in the news summary. Statement 2 is CORRECT: The 65th National Inter-State Championships in Bhubaneswar will indeed serve as the final trials for the Asian Games, as mentioned in the article. Statement 3 is INCORRECT: The 29th National Senior Athletics Federation competition in Ranchi will act as the final selection for the Glasgow Commonwealth Games, not the World Athletics Championships.

2. Which of the following statements accurately reflects the Athletics Federation of India's (AFI) current approach to international competitions? A) The AFI is equally focused on both the Asian Games and the Commonwealth Games. B) The AFI is prioritizing the Commonwealth Games due to the higher medal prospects. C) The AFI is prioritizing the Asian Games, with limited participation in the Commonwealth Games. D) The AFI is only participating in the World Relays and not focusing on other major events.

  • A.The AFI is equally focused on both the Asian Games and the Commonwealth Games.
  • B.The AFI is prioritizing the Commonwealth Games due to the higher medal prospects.
  • C.The AFI is prioritizing the Asian Games, with limited participation in the Commonwealth Games.
  • D.The AFI is only participating in the World Relays and not focusing on other major events.
Show Answer

Answer: C

The news summary explicitly states that the Athletics Federation of India (AFI) will focus on the Asian Games this year, with a limited number of athletes participating in the Commonwealth Games. Therefore, option C accurately reflects the AFI's current approach.

3. Which of the following events will serve as the final selection for the Glasgow Commonwealth Games, according to the Athletics Federation of India (AFI)? A) 65th National Inter-State Championships in Bhubaneswar B) World Relays in Botswana C) 29th National Senior Athletics Federation competition in Ranchi D) National Open Athletics Championships

  • A.65th National Inter-State Championships in Bhubaneswar
  • B.World Relays in Botswana
  • C.29th National Senior Athletics Federation competition in Ranchi
  • D.National Open Athletics Championships
Show Answer

Answer: C

According to the news summary, the 29th National Senior Athletics Federation competition in Ranchi will act as the final selection for the Glasgow Commonwealth Games.

4. Consider the following statements: 1. The Athletics Federation of India (AFI) revised the domestic calendar to better prepare athletes for the Asian Games. 2. India will participate in the World Relays in Botswana in May. 3. Anju Bobby George stated that the National Inter-State championships in Bhubaneswar will serve as the final trials for the Commonwealth Games. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

  • A.1 and 2 only
  • B.2 and 3 only
  • C.1 and 3 only
  • D.1, 2 and 3
Show Answer

Answer: A

Statement 1 is CORRECT: The AFI revised the domestic calendar and announced guidelines for competing in the National Inter-State meet. Statement 2 is CORRECT: India will participate in the World Relays in Botswana in May. Statement 3 is INCORRECT: Anju Bobby George stated that the National Inter-State championships in Bhubaneswar will serve as the final trials for the Asian Games, not the Commonwealth Games.

Source Articles

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We are expecting more medals from athletics in Asian Games: Radhakrishnan Nair - The Hindu

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ATHLETICS | AFI hopes for better show in Commonwealth and Asian Games - The Hindu

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Sports secretary urges NSFs to have Asian Games 2026 selection plan in place by August 29 - Sportstar

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