Uncertainty looms over India's Asian Winter Games participation

India’s participation in the Asian Winter Games, starting February 7 in Harbin, China, is uncertain after the Olympic Council of Asia (OCA) denied accreditation requests for new players in ice hockey and snowboarding. 

The Indian Olympic Association (IOA) had initially recommended a 76-member contingent across ice skating, skiing, and ice hockey but faced pushback from the Sports Ministry.

The Sports Ministry had raised concerns over the IOA’s initial list, citing a lack of international experience for many athletes.

It approved only 35 athletes stating in a letter that only the top three athletes or teams in a particular discipline with previous international exposure may be approved. 

After an initial refusal to clear the ice hockey team, the ministry on Sunday cleared a 23-member ice hockey team after trials in Leh.

However, OCA refused to process the fresh accreditation. 

IOA president PT Usha criticized the intervention of the sports ministry and the subsequent fresh trials that were held. 

Usha backed the original team selected by the Ice Hockey Association of India, an affiliate of the International Ice Hockey Federation.

Citing a 2021 circular, the IOA asserted its role in athlete selection when National Sports Federations are unrecognized or suspended.

The ministry’s involvement has sparked tensions ahead of Monday’s delegation registration deadline, leaving India’s participation in limbo.

The 2025 Asian Winter Games will be held from February 7-14. India has participated in the previous eight editions but has not won a medal so far.