Question

Explain the evolution of gymnastics in India.

Answer 1

1. Formation of the national federation: The Gymnastics Federation of India (GFI) was established in 1951. In 1952, it became affiliated with the Indian Olympic Association and the Federation of International Gymnastics (FIG).
2. National competitions: The National Gymnastic Championship for men began in 1952, while the women’s championship was organised in 1962.
3. Development of junior gymnastics: The first national championship for sub-junior boys and girls was held in 1986 at Karnal, Haryana.
4. Expansion of the sport: Sports aerobics was organised under the GFI from 1997, alongside gymnastics.
5. International participation and achievement: Khushi Ram and Veer Singh represented India in gymnastics at the 1952 Helsinki Olympics. A later landmark came in 2016, when Dipa Karmakar became the first Indian woman to qualify for Olympic gymnastics and finished fourth.