How is MYAS and SAI Supporting 222 Young Athletes for the Asian Youth Games 2025?
Synopsis
India is gearing up for a remarkable display at the 3rd Asian Youth Games in Bahrain with a 222-member contingent. Supported by MYAS and SAI, this delegation showcases the growth of young athletes, particularly female representation. With comprehensive support and preparation, these athletes are ready to make their mark on the Asian sports stage.
Key Takeaways
222 athletes representing India at the Asian Youth Games.
Comprehensive support from MYAS and SAI.
Significant female representation.
Focus on anti-doping measures .
Key Olympic disciplines and emerging sports featured.
New Delhi, Oct 18 (NationPress) India is poised to make a significant impact at the 3rd Asian Youth Games, taking place in Bahrain from October 22 to 31, with a 222-member athlete delegation participating in 21 different sports. This initiative is backed by the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports (MYAS) and the Sports Authority of India (SAI), as the young athletes join forces with 90 coaches, physios, and officials, bringing the total strength of the Indian team to 312.
Among the 222 athletes, there are 31 competitors in athletics, 14 in boxing, 28 in kabaddi, 16 in handball, and 10 each in taekwondo, wrestling, and weightlifting.
The largest female representation will be seen in athletics and handball, highlighting the progress of young women athletes throughout the nation. Yogeshwar Dutt, a former Olympic medalist wrestler, will serve as the Chef de Mission for the country.
The contingent comprises 119 female and 103 male athletes, with many being products of prestigious government initiatives such as Khelo India, Target Olympic Podium Scheme (TOPS), and National Centres of Excellence (NCOEs).
The Ministry has endorsed the participation of the team at the government's full expense, with SAI managing costs related to travel, accommodation, insurance, and ceremonial attire.
Indian youth athletes will compete in crucial Olympic events like athletics, swimming, badminton, boxing, wrestling, weightlifting, and judo, along with emerging sports such as kurash, pencak silat, teqball, and camel racing.
SAI’s medical team and physios will accompany the athletes to provide continuous support. Particular emphasis has been placed on anti-doping protocols, with the National Anti-Doping Agency (NADA) conducting mandatory testing prior to departure, ensuring the physical and mental readiness of the team.
The 2025 Asian Youth Games in Bahrain aims to host approximately 4000 athletes from 45 nations, competing in 259 events across 26 sports. This event will serve as the Asian qualifiers for the 2026 Summer Youth Olympics in Dakar, Senegal.
Set to be held from October 22 to 31, this pan-Asian multi-sport event marks the first time since 2013 that the games will take place.
Point of View
I affirm that the support provided to our young athletes by MYAS and SAI exemplifies our nation’s commitment to nurturing sporting talent. The focus on inclusivity, particularly with female athletes, showcases India's progressive approach in sports. We stand united in our aspiration for excellence on the global stage.
NationPress
21 Jun 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Asian Youth Games 2025?
The Asian Youth Games 2025 is a multi-sport event scheduled to be held in Bahrain from October 22 to 31, featuring young athletes from across Asia competing in various sports.
How many athletes will represent India?
India will be represented by a total of 222 athletes across 21 sporting disciplines at the Asian Youth Games 2025.
Who is supporting the Indian contingent?
The Indian contingent is supported by the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports (MYAS) and the Sports Authority of India (SAI).
What sports will Indian athletes compete in?
Indian athletes will compete in key Olympic sports such as athletics, boxing, and wrestling, as well as emerging sports like kurash and teqball.
What is the significance of this event?
The 2025 Asian Youth Games serves as the Asian qualifiers for the 2026 Summer Youth Olympics in Dakar, Senegal, making it a crucial event for young athletes.
