New Delhi, India, February 26, 2026: The Sports Ministry of India has directed the Indian Olympic Association to form an ad-hoc committee to oversee the administration of karate, citing confusion caused by multiple bodies claiming to be the sport’s national federation.
At present, at least five bodies have laid claim to being the official governing body of the sport in India.
With karate being a medal sport at the Aichi-Nagoya 2026 Asian Games, it was felt that administrative clarity was essential to ensure uninterrupted athlete preparation and participation in international events.
In a communication addressed to IOA President PT Usha, the Sports Ministry underscored the urgency of establishing a structured governance mechanism, with an eye on karate being featured in this year’s Asian Games, from September 19 to October 4, in Japan.
"The Ministry, hereby, requests the Indian Olympic Association to constitute a transitory committee or Ad-Hoc committee in consultation with the concerned International Federation to oversee and manage the affairs of the sport of karate," the Ministry stated.