Arm wrestling, Mallakhamb should be included in Olympics: Anurag Thakur

File Image: Anurag Thakur called for the inclusion of arm wrestling and Mallakhamb in future Olympic Games. | Photo Credit: ANI

Former Sports Minister Anurag Thakur has called for arm wrestling and Mallakhamb to be considered for inclusion in future Olympic Games, citing their growing popularity.

Speaking to media on the sidelines of the opening ceremony of the 47th World Armwrestling Championship and 28th World Para Armwrestling Championship in New Delhi, Thakur questioned why the two disciplines could not gain Olympic recognition.

He pointed to breaking’s inclusion in the Olympic programme and said he believed sports such as arm wrestling and Mallakhamb also deserved an opportunity.

Thakur highlighted arm wrestling’s international participation and expressed confidence that the sport could eventually feature at the Games.

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The championships will bring together more than 1,700 participants from over 60 countries, with Russia, Uzbekistan and host India among the prominent contingents.

Union Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju, also a former Sports Minister, assured the organisers of assistance in conducting the championships.

Rijiju said he would personally look into any support required by the organisers and Indian or overseas participants.