In a significant development for Indian sports administration, Dr Anandeswar Pandey from Jaipur has secured a prestigious position in the continental governing body for handball. The Secretary General of the South Asian Handball Federation and Executive Director of the Handball Association India was elected as a council member of the Asian Handball Federation.
Historic Election at Cairo Congress
The election took place during the Ordinary Congress of the Asian Handball Federation held in Cairo, Egypt, on Monday. The congress witnessed participation from representatives of 36 Asian countries, highlighting the broad regional engagement in the sport. Dr Pandey's election marks a proud moment for Indian handball, as he becomes only the second Indian to achieve this influential position after Padmashri Dr RL Anand.
Dr Tejraj Singh, the Jaipur-based Secretary General of the Handball Association India, confirmed this historic achievement. He emphasized that this appointment significantly strengthens India's presence and voice within the AHF's decision-making structures.
New Council Composition and Indian Representation
Dr Anandeswar Pandey was elected as one of the five council members of the AHF. The newly elected council comprises representatives from across Asia:
- Dr Anandeswar Pandey (India)
- Mohammad Guldar (UAE)
- Dr Ahmed (Iraq)
- Dr Chung Hyukung (Korea)
- Amir Albarwani (Oman)
Both Dr Pandey and Dr Tejraj Singh have been actively representing India in high-level meetings of various handball federations, including the International Handball Federation, the Asian Handball Federation, the Commonwealth Handball Federation, and the South Asian Handball Federation. In these forums, they have been instrumental in sharing India's perspectives and suggestions for the development of the sport.
Future Implications for South Asian Handball
This election has immediate implications for the regional body as well. The South Asian Handball Federation has unanimously agreed to form its next four-year executive committee. The SAHF has authorized Dr Anandeswar Pandey to announce the new committee soon, trusting his leadership and newly enhanced stature within the Asian hierarchy.
This appointment is expected to provide a stronger platform for Indian and South Asian handball initiatives on the continental stage. It promises greater collaboration, knowledge exchange, and potentially more hosting opportunities for tournaments within the region.
