Nita Ambani, the founder and chairperson of the Reliance Foundation, has been nominated for membership to the International Olympic Committee, officials announced on Friday. If she gets elected, she will become the first Indian woman hold a position in the sporting body and will continue to be a member until she turns 70. The election will be held during the 129th IOC session at Rio De Janeiro between August 2 and 4.
IOC President Thomas Bach, announcing the eight candidates at a press conference in Lausanne, Switzerland, said, "This is a very outstanding group of personalities that are experts in their respective fields." The IOC conducts the summer and winter Olympics as well as the Paralympics.
Ambani said, "It is truly an honour and privilege to be nominated by IOC. I believe in the power of sport to shape our youth, to bring together communities and bridge gaps between cultures and generations. I am grateful to IOC for this opportunity. It's a recognition of India and Indian women. I am looking forward to the opportunity to contribute in meeting the goals of IOC."
Two other Indians have been members of the IOC, the late Sir Dorabji Tata and Raja Randhir Singh, who is currently an honorary member of the apex sporting body.
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