Excelsior Sports Correspondent
New Delhi, Sept 19: A delegation representing various Ice Sports Organizations in India, led by Member of Parliament Jamyang Tsering Namgyal, President of the Ice Hockey Federation of India, Namgyal Angchuk Gyapo, President and P.T. Kunzang General Secretary of the Ice Hockey Association of Ladakh met with Sujata Chaturvedi, Secretary Sports, Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports, Government of India and highlighted critical issues for the development of Ice Hockey in India.
The delegation raised several crucial concerns such as lack of Recognition for Ice Hockey Association of Ladakh. The delegation highlighted the sidelining of the officially registered UT Level Ice Hockey Association in Ladakh, the Ice Hockey Association of Ladakh (IHAL). They emphasized that Ladakh possesses immense potential and talent in ice hockey, yet the Ice Hockey Association of India (IHAI) has failed to provide adequate support and representation, limiting opportunities for young players from the region.
The delegation also expressed concerns about the lack of transparency and accountability. They called for close scrutiny of financial transactions and funding allocation to ensure fairness and integrity within the association.
The delegation called for a transparent and unbiased process for nominating and appointing individuals to influential positions within the Ice Hockey Association of India (IHAI). They emphasized the importance of eliminating favouritism and nepotism to promote meritocracy and growth in Ice hockey, particularly in Ladakh.
The delegation raised concerns about alleged divisive practices within the Ice Hockey Association of India (IHAI), which have created divisions within the ice hockey community in Ladakh. They stressed the importance of unity and cooperation among various ice hockey associations for the sport’s progress in the region.
While the delegation had also formally announced the establishment of the Ice Hockey Federation of India, registered and based in Leh, with the support of more than five States. This new body aims to ensure transparency and professional development within the ice hockey community in the country. The delegation urged immediate intervention and support of the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports to address these pressing issues.