New Delhi, Feb 10 (NationPress) The Indian Amateur Boxing Federation (IABF) has officially received full membership from the International Boxing Association (IBA). This significant milestone was reached during the IBA Board Meeting on February 6, 2026, and was communicated via an official letter from Lausanne, Switzerland, on February 9.

IBA President Umar Kremlev congratulated the IABF on this achievement in a letter to IABF President Rakesh Mishra, commending the federation's dedication to boxing, transparent governance, and compliance with international standards. These elements were crucial in securing IABF's full membership.

"It is with great pleasure that I extend my heartfelt congratulations to the Indian Amateur Boxing Federation (IABF) for successfully attaining full membership with the International Boxing Association (IBA) following the decision made by the IBA Board of Directors on February 6, 2026. Your dedication to the sport of boxing and the standards upheld by your Federation have earned you a well-deserved place in the IBA family.

We are excited to have your National Federation join us and anticipate the positive contributions and collaboration that will enhance our mutual commitment to advancing boxing globally," the letter stated.

Kremlev expressed optimism that IABF's active involvement would significantly contribute to the global boxing landscape, highlighting that India's inclusion would inject new vitality and direction into the worldwide boxing movement.

With the new full membership status, IABF is now formally invited to engage in forthcoming international competitions and events organized by the IBA.

The association is hopeful that the participation of Indian boxers will further solidify the international boxing community and foster long-term, constructive collaboration between the two organizations.

In response to this development, IABF President Mishra referred to the recognition as a golden opportunity for Indian boxing, stating that full IBA membership will grant Indian boxers improved access to international competitions, advanced training techniques, technical support, and invaluable global exposure.

On this occasion, IABF Secretary General Rakesh Thakran expressed gratitude to the IBA Board and its member nations, emphasizing that this recognition aligns with Prime Minister Narendra Modi's vision of providing enhanced opportunities for Indian athletes at the Olympic level.

He further indicated that the IABF would now concentrate on identifying grassroots talent and implementing structured training programs to prepare competitive boxers for the upcoming Olympic Games. This membership, he added, also offers a vital chance to address and improve the challenges faced by Indian boxing in recent years.

Thakran congratulated all state-level boxing associations across the country, highlighting that this achievement is a result of collective efforts. He urged all stakeholders—players, coaches, referees, technical officials, and administrators—to actively partake in this new era of Indian boxing.

He also pointed out the significance of collaborating under the guidance of Union Minister for Youth Affairs and Sports Mansukh Mandaviya to ensure holistic development and stronger international representation for Indian boxers, particularly at the Olympic Games.