NEW DELHI: Union Minister for Youth Affairs & Sports Anurag Singh Thakur inaugurated the IBA Women’s World Boxing Championships 2023 at the Indira Gandhi Sports Complex in New Delhi on Wednesday.
The opening ceremony took place in New Delhi and was attended by the Union Minister Of Port Shipping & Waterways and the Department Of Ayush Sarbananda Sonowal, Indian Boxing Association President Umar Kremlev, Boxing Federation of India President Ajay Singh. Minister of Sports from the Government of Russia Mr Oleg Matytsin also attended the event.
The tournament’s brand ambassador is six-time champion great MC Mary Kom. She was also present along with the guest of honour, actor Farhan Akhtar.
"A total of 324 women boxers from about 65 countries are taking part in the ChampionshipS in 12 weight categories. India has risen to the third position from 44th position in the latest International Boxing Association, IBA world rankings. The Boxing Federation of India is the nodal body responsible for the development of boxing in India and the government of India is supporting in all possible ways either for the organization of the tournament or training of the athlete. The IBA Women’s World Boxing Championships is the most prestigious women's boxing championship globally, which is being held in India in sync with the vision of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's vision for women's empowerment - Nari Shakti, " said the Minister of Sports in his speech.
The ceremony witnessed a presentation from the Army Brass Band and a display of Indian culture through dance recitals. Social media stars Antonvona Ekaterina and Abdu Rozik entertained the people at the inaugural ceremony.
Hosted by the Boxing Federation of India (BFI), the prestigious tournament will continue till March 26. As many as 324 boxers from 65 countries, including several Olympics medallists, will be participating in this competition. India is hosting this tournament for the record third time.
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