The All India Pickleball Association (AIPA) has won a significant legal ruling from the Division Bench of the Delhi High Court, which has strengthened its claim for recognition as India's National Sports Federation (NSF) for pickleball.
The Court expressed serious concerns about the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports' (MYAS) conduct, particularly its decision to overlook AIPA’s application submitted in October 2024 while granting NSF status to a newly formed body incorporated in November 2024. The Bench questioned how the newly recognised organisation was exempted from basic eligibility criteria under the National Sports Development Code (2011), especially given that AIPA's application remained pending without formal rejection.
In its order, the Division Bench directed the Union of India to provide the full original records relating to the evaluation of all NSF applications. It also mandated that AIPA must receive a full and fair opportunity to submit written arguments and be heard prior to any renewal decision, as the NSF recognition is due for renewal in April or May 2026.
The Court clarified that the matter must be reconsidered anew, without influence from previous rulings, thereby safeguarding the rights of all involved parties. The next hearing is scheduled for May 11, 2026.
Established in 2008, AIPA has spent more than 15 years developing pickleball across India, with 25 state associations, district affiliates, and international recognition since 2023. By contrast, the rival organisation was created in late 2024, one month after AIPA's application to the ministry, and was granted exemptions from key eligibility rules, such as the required three-year existence and minimum state and district affiliations.
Reacting to the court proceedings, AIPA stated that the hearing confirms its longstanding contributions to the sport and emphasises the importance of due process. The association expressed confidence that a full review of the records will validate its rightful status and reiterated its trust in the judicial system as the case progresses.
This development represents a pivotal moment for pickleball governance in India, one of the fastest-growing sports nationally. It underscores the necessity for transparency, meritocracy, and institutional credibility in the recognition of national sports federations.
AIPA remains the oldest and most established pickleball organisation in India, having led the sport’s growth and representing athletes, coaches, and state associations across the country for over 15 years.