Rajya Sabha MP John Brittas has urged Sports Minister Mansukh Mandaviya to immediately reinstate kick-boxing in the list of recognized university-level events. The Association of Indian Universities (AIU) Sports Board removed kick-boxing from its 2025-26 University Sports Calendar. The decision, made on August 26 during the 34th Annual General Meeting (AGM), cited “minimal student participation.”
MP Brittas Opposes Exclusion
MP Brittas strongly opposed the AIU’s decision. He stated the exclusion disregards the sport’s significant growth in India. Brittas emphasized kick-boxing’s national and international standing.
“Kick-boxing is one of the rapidly expanding combat sports in India,” Brittas stated. He added that the sport sees “substantial participation at the school, university, national, and international levels.” The MP highlighted that removing kick-boxing from the university sports calendar creates “serious hardship for the athletes.”
Student Scholarships and Recognition at Risk
Brittas reported receiving concerns from several young athletes. Their preparations for the All India Inter-University Championship are now severely affected. The AIU’s action directly impacts their training and competitive opportunities.
For many students, inter-university competition is more than just a tournament. It serves as an essential pathway for critical recognition. These events also offer crucial scholarships and improve future prospects for athletes. Losing this opportunity jeopardizes their academic and athletic career trajectories.
AIU Board’s Calendar Revisions
During its 34th AGM on August 26 , the AIU Sports Board unanimously dropped 16 sports from its annual calendar. Kick-boxing was among the sports excluded. Other disciplines removed include dragon boat racing, soft baseball, and mini golf.
The AIU Board explained its modifications. The objective was “streamlining the Sports Calendar.” The Board also aimed to ensure “focused attention on disciplines that command wider student participation and carry national and international relevance.”
Call for Immediate Reinstatement
Brittas has urged Minister Mandaviya to review the matter. He requested the Minister to direct the authorities concerned. The MP seeks the immediate reinstatement of kick-boxing. This would return the sport to the AIU Annual Sports Calendar. The appeal aims to mitigate the adverse effects on student-athletes and the sport’s development in India.