Promoting India's Boxing Future-Vijender Singh Calls for World Exposure and Transparency in the Government

As part of the lead-up to the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics, Indian boxing legend and Olympic medal winner Vijender Singh has focused on providing Indian boxers with increased international exposure. In the quest to be successful in sport, Singh is of the opinion that international games will be the recipe for success to bring medals at the international stage. Apart from this, he has also demanded new and fair elections in the Boxing Federation of India (BFI) for efficient governance and proper management of the sport within the nation.

The Global Exposure Requirement for Indian Boxing

Indian boxers have not been competitive in international tournaments to a significant extent since the Paris 2024 Olympics. This lack of exposure is presently becoming a key concern, particularly since nations that possess good boxing programs constantly go to top-class international tournaments to sharpen their boxers. Vijender Singh went to social media, X (previously Twitter), to bring his issues forward and demand foreign exposure. He emphasized that constant participation in international tournaments abroad is essential in making Indian boxers prepared to compete against best-level competition at the 2028 Olympics.

Singh stated, "The manner in which our nation is moving ahead in sports, I strongly believe that Indian boxers need to get more exposure outside the country in competitions from now onwards so that they can become medal winners in the LA Olympics 2028."

BFI Elections-A Call for Transparency and Reform

The second problem ailing Indian boxing is the tardy elections within the Boxing Federation of India. The term of the current office-bearers expired on February 3, 2025, but to date, no new elections have been held. This has led to administrative uncertainty and put a brake on the development of the sport at a very crucial moment.

Seeing the gravity of the situation, the Indian Olympic Association (IOA) stepped in and formed an ad-hoc committee to carry out boxing affairs until a new body is elected into office. The IOA released a five-member committee on 26th February 2025 to oversee the federation operations. The panel, which is being headed by former Athletics Federation of India (AFI) treasurer Madhukant Pathak, has already had boxing officials like Rajesh Bhandari (vice-chairman), DP Bhatt, Virendra Singh Thakur, and former Asian champion Shiva Thapa, the representative of the players.

Singh has demanded quick and equitable polls, stressing that robust leadership is required for the development of Indian boxing. He offered himself to serve the sport's administration if provided with a chance. "For that, we have to hold new and fair elections at the earliest to create a strong federation. I would be more than happy to provide my experience if entrusted with any role by our government. @PMOIndia @mansukhmandviya," Singh had tweeted

Indian Boxing Struggles Post Paris 2024

The journey to the Los Angeles Olympics is already filled with challenges for Indian boxing. Indian boxers during the Paris 2024 Olympics did not win any medals, a poor performance by India in the sport. This failure has questioned the training and preparation strategies. Without proper international exposure, Indian boxers are sure to lag behind their international counterparts, reducing their chances of Olympic success.

And yet one more cause for the uncertainty is the suspension of the International Boxing Association (IBA) by the International Olympic Committee (IOC). The Umar Kremlev-led IBA has been embroiled in matters relating to governance as well as finances and, consequently, has been suspended from conducting Olympic boxing. The breakaway federation World Boxing is attempting to obtain IOC recognition in order not to see boxing cut from subsequent Olympic Games.

The Way Ahead-A Vision for Indian Boxing

With India setting its sights on the 2028 Olympics, it is critical that measures be taken to adopt a systematic and gradual path to boxing. Vijender Singh's appeal for more foreign exposure is a pointer towards Indian boxers needing to get exposed to international competition on a consistent basis. Exposure to varying styles, techniques, and training regimes can improve their performance and competitiveness at the international level greatly.

Apart from this, the administrative disorder in the BFI must be settled immediately. Holding clean and fair elections will lead to a well-run federation that can foster and nurture boxing talent successfully. Good governance will bring about better funds, training centers, and opportunities for boxers, and hence, a better chance for India at the Los Angeles Olympics.

Conclusion

Vijender Singh's call for foreign exposure and government transformation of Indian boxing could not have been better timed. With the Olympics in 2028 looming over the horizon, India must finalize its plans to put its boxers in top condition for the sport. By ensuring increased exposure in overseas events and breaking down red tape, India can entrench its boxing infrastructure and target Olympic success once again.