Everything I Do, I Do It For Athletes, Indian Sports

I want to be remembered as PT Usha, my story is not yet finished, says IOA chief at Delhi Dialogue

- 

A PART from being a sports administrator, the 'Golden girl' of Indian athletics is also a Rajya Sabha MP. At the 20th edition of Delhi Dialogue, she emphasises the importance of zero tolerance on doping, and reflects on the highs and lows of her illustrious career. Excerpts:

Jayanth Jacob: Can you sum up your tenure at IOA president? Your term has been seen quite controversial, especially in the last year or so. Since January 2024, when the Chief Executive Officer was appointed, things were not exactly going your way.

My tenure is an unwavering focus on strengthening Indian sports. Since taking over, my priority has always been to support our athletes, enhance governance structures, and bring professionalism to IOA. There have been challenges as is the case with any leadership role.

The CEO appointment was done as per the established procedures and in line with the IOA Constitution and the directives set forth by IOC/Justice (Retd) Nageswara Rao (appointed by the Supreme Court to amend the IOA Constitution). Differences of opinion are natural in any organisation, but my intent has always been to act in the best interest of sports.

While 12 Executive Council members have opposed the nomination and continue to block the appointment, my approach has been to work in a manner that upholds the integrity and growth of sports.

Jayanth Jacob: Will it affect 2036 Olympics bid process?

Our objective is to reinforce the foundations of sports governance. Therefore, the need to ratify the CEO appointment and nominated by the three-member Nomination Committee as laid down in IOA Constitution is very important.