A significant step towards the global recognition of yoga was taken at the 44th General Assembly of the Olympic Council of Asia (OCA). The assembly, which elected India’s Randhir Singh as the OCA president for a four-year term, unanimously approved the inclusion of Yogasana as a demonstration event at the 2026 Asian Games, to be held in Aichi-Nagoya, Japan.
This decision marks a major victory for India’s efforts to promote yoga internationally. Singh, who played a key role in advocating for yoga’s inclusion, highlighted the rejuvenating nature of the practice, stating that unlike other sports that carry the risk of injuries, yoga promotes overall well-being.
To solidify yoga’s presence on the Asian Games stage, Singh emphasized the need to showcase its benefits to other nations at the 2026 Games. He highlighted the importance of sending instructors to teach other countries and increase the popularity of yoga globally. This strategic move aims to pave the way for yoga’s inclusion as a medal event at the 2030 Asian Games.
With this inclusion, yoga takes a step closer to being recognized as a mainstream sport on the world stage, furthering its reach and influence globally. The upcoming 2026 Asian Games in Nagoya will serve as a platform to demonstrate the transformative power of yoga and its potential to contribute to a healthier and more holistic way of life.
