Anju Bobby George Named Chairperson of AFI’s Athletes Commission

Anju Bobby George, the legendary long-jumper and a 2003 World Championships bronze medalist, was named the Chairperson of the Athletics Federation of India (AFI) Athletes Commission. The new commission comprises a mix of prominent retired athletes, with Neeraj Chopra, the two-time Olympic medalist, being the most notable male member. The commission marks a significant step towards gender parity in the AFI setup, with six women out of nine members.

Key Points

Anju Bobby George’s Appointment

• Anju Bobby George, a former world-class long jumper, was appointed as the Chairperson of the AFI Athletes Commission.
• The commission is composed of nine athletes, with six women, including notable figures like runner Jyotirmoyee Sikdar, discus thrower Krishna Poonia, and steeplechaser Sudha Singh.
• Anju George, who is also a Senior Vice-President in the AFI, is tasked with leading the commission towards greater representation and advocacy for athletes.

Prominent Athletes in the Commission

• Neeraj Chopra, the star javelin thrower and two-time Olympic medalist, is one of the nominated members, though he initially hesitated due to his active athletic career.
• The other male members of the commission are Avinash Sable, a 3000m steeplechaser, and Bahadur Singh Sagoo, the newly-elected AFI president and a shot put gold medalist from the 2002 Asian Games.

Election Process and Procedure

• The Commission was unveiled after elections held in October 2024, with five members elected and four others, including Neeraj Chopra and Avinash Sable, added after consultations by the AFI Executive Council.
• Outgoing AFI treasurer Madhu Kant Pathak confirmed that due processes were followed for the elections.

AFI Executive Council Changes

• Adille Sumariwalla, the outgoing AFI president, remains a part of the AFI executive council as an ex-officio member. He will also chair a committee that liaises with the government and international bodies and serve on the AFI Ethics Commission.

Domestic Season Calendar

• The Federation Cup, India’s first major national senior athletics championship of the season, will take place from April 21-24, 2025, in Kozhikode, Kerala.
• The National Inter-State Senior Championships will be held from August 20-24, 2025, in Chennai.
• The National Open Championships are scheduled from September 27-30, 2025, in Ranchi.