Delhi High Court directs inclusion of Dragon Boat Racing in Khelo India Water Sports festival

The Delhi High Court directed the inclusion of Dragon Boat Racing in the Khelo India Water Sports Festival 2025 at Dal Lake, Srinagar, scheduled from August 21–23.

The petitioner, Dragon Boat India and Traditional Sports Federation, affiliated with the International Dragon Boat Federation, argued against its exclusion despite the sport’s global recognition in the Asian Games and Asia Beach Games. 

Justice Sachin Datta held that the sport’s international stature and cultural roots warrant its recognition.

The Court ordered the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports to coordinate with J&K authorities while the petitioner provides infrastructure and officials.

[Dragon Boat India and Traditional Sports Federation v UOI & Anr.]