"VAN" (Sports Desk - 18.05.2026) :: In a significant development for the sport of weightlifting in the South Asian region, Dr. Sahdev Yadav has been elected unanimously as the President of the South Asian Weightlifting Federation (SAWF) during the Federation’s election meeting held in Ahmedabad, Gujarat, on 12th May 2026.
Dr. Sahdev Yadav is presently serving as the President of the Indian Weightlifting Federation. He also holds several prestigious positions in the international sporting fraternity, including Treasurer of the Indian Olympic Association, Vice President of the Commonwealth Weightlifting Federation, and Assistant to the President of the Asian Weightlifting Federation.
His unanimous election reflects the confidence and trust reposed in his leadership, vision and contribution towards the development and promotion of weightlifting across India, South Asia, and the international sporting community.
Speaking on the occasion, Dr. Sahdev Yadav expressed his gratitude to all member nations and officials for their overwhelming support and confidence. He reiterated his commitment to strengthening cooperation among South Asian nations and working towards the growth of weightlifting through improved athlete development programs, coaching standards, infrastructure and international participation.
Mrs. Sabina Yadav, Member - Innovation Committee, International Weightlifting Federation and Jt. Secretary, Indian Weightlifting Federation has also been appointed as the Chief Executive Officer of the South Asian Weightlifting Federation.
The election meeting also witnessed the successful election of other office bearers and members to various key positions in the South Asian Weightlifting Federation.
Newly Elected Office Bearers and Members
President: Dr. Sahdev Yadav, President, Indian Weightlifting Federation
General Secretary: Mr. Ram Krishna Sreshtha, President, Nepal Weightlifting Federation.
Vice President(s):
1. Mr. Ibrahim Hameed, President, Maldives Weightlifting Federation.
2. Mr. Sanka Ratnayake, President, Sri Lanka Weightlifting Federation.
Chief Executive Officer: Mrs. Sabina Yadav, Jt. Secretary, Indian Weightlifting Federation.
Executive Board Member: Ms. Shahria Sultana, Bangladesh Weightlifting Federation.
The newly elected team is expected to work collectively towards elevating the standards of weightlifting in the South Asian region and promoting greater unity and sporting excellence among member countries.
The Asian Weightlifting Federation also extended its congratulations to all the elected officials and expressed confidence that the new leadership will contribute significantly to the advancement of the sport in the years ahead.
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