P.T. Usha becomes first woman Indian Olympic Association president
The Hindu
P.T. Usha, fondly known as the 'Payyoli Express', is being seen as a candidate of the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party, which had nominated her as a Rajya Sabha member in July
Ushering in a new era in the country's sports administration, the legendary P.T. Usha was on December 10 elected as the first woman president of the Indian Olympic Association (IOA).
The 58-year-old Ms. Usha, a multiple Asian Games gold medallist and fourth-place finisher in the 1984 Los Angeles Olympics 400m hurdles final, was declared elected unopposed for the top post in the polls.
The elections were held under the supervision of Supreme Court-appointed retired SC judge L Nageswara Rao.
The election of Ms. Usha to the top job marked an end to the long drawn crisis in the faction-ridden IOA, which was warned of a possible suspension by the International Olympic Committee (IOC) if elections are not held this month.
The polls were originally due to be held in December 2021.
Ms. Usha's anointment to the top post was a forgone conclusion late last month after she emerged as the lone candidate for the top post.
Nobody was willing to fight against Ms. Usha, who was nominated to the Rajya Sabha by the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party in July.
FIFA adopts new protocols to support players during pregnancy, following the birth of their children
FIFA introduces new maternity leave rules for players and coaches, aiming to support their well-being and family life.