Representational.
New Delhi: The Union Sports Ministry promised its "in principle" support to Indian Olympic Association's (IOA) willingness to host the Asian Beach Games in the country in 2024, PTI reported.
The Asian Beach Games is mostly seen as the second-largest multi-sporting event in Asia (ABG) after the Asian Games. The ABG is held every two years featuring athletes across Asia.
In a letter to IOA general secretary Rajeev Mehta, the sports ministry said, "The Ministry supports 'in-principle' the IOA's intent to host the 2024 Asian Beach Games in India, as hosting of international tournament provides opportunities for greater representation because of direct entries permitted to host countries."
The letter further read, "Hosting of international tournaments also provides opportunities for utilising of sports infrastructure/facilities and augmenting of the same and enhancing the capabilities, skills, and preparedness relating to various activities relating to international events."
The Covid-19 forced the games- which were scheduled to stage in Sanya city of China- to be postponed twice, in 2020 and 2021. Sanya has been chosen to host the event in 2023.