Indian Pickleball Association Growth Strategy: The Indian Pickleball Association (IPA) and the Pickleball World Ranking (PWR) system are working together to make India a global power in pickleball. The IPA, led by president Suryaveer Singh Bhullar, has set up training centers, created a ranking system, and is planning new tournaments, including the Indian Pickleball League.
Suryaveer Singh Bhullar said, “The IPA’s ultimate goal is to build a world-class sporting structure that will enable Indian players to win medals at international events, including junior and pro categories.” He added, “We are also planning to host the Pickleball Asia Cup in India.”
Big Goals for Indian Pickleball
Bhullar explained his long-term vision. “As the president of the NSF, my vision is to see India become a force to be reckoned with on the international pickleball circuit within the next five years. This includes: winning medals, ensuring widespread participation.”
To support this goal, the IPA has already organized tournaments across the country, from Jammu and Kashmir to the NorthEast and Karnataka in the south. Bhullar said, “The growing interest has also led to a demand for better infrastructure and formal support. The IPA’s sanctioned events and ranking system are a direct response to this demand, and the players have shown a great response by participating in large numbers and showcasing their skills.”
Development and Roadmap
Recognized by the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports as the National Sports Federation (NSF) for pickleball, the IPA has built a development plan that includes Regional Centres of Excellence in New Delhi, Haryana, Punjab, West Bengal, and Assam. The National Centre of Excellence has already been launched in Gujarat.
Bhullar explained, “We plan to expand these centres to other states, with a significant focus on Bihar, Uttar Pradesh, and Chhattisgarh.”
The IPA’s NSF status also means pickleball is now part of government schemes like Khelo India and Khel Mahakumbh. This helps the IPA register players and organize national-level tournaments for all age groups.
Bhullar said, “To standardise the quality of the game, the IPA is developing comprehensive certification programs for coaches and referees. We are also planning to launch the Indian Pickleball League (IPL), featuring top Indian and international players.”
NorthEast Becomes a Hub
With tournaments under the PWR system, interest in pickleball has grown rapidly. On Saturday, the Kohima Open, a PWR 50 event, began in Nagaland, marking the third event this year in the NorthEast.
Bhullar said, “The IPA’s focus is on the NorthEast, as evidenced by the establishment of Centers of Excellence and the sanctioning of tournaments like the Assam Pickleball Open, Nagaland Pickleball Open is crucial for the region’s development. Sanctioned tournaments provide a platform for local players to showcase their skills, gain exposure, and earn official rankings. This will inspire more people to take up the sport and help in identifying and nurturing talent from the region.”
He also praised the role of government and local bodies. “The support for establishing state associations, like the Assam Pickleball Association, Nagaland Pickleball Association, Arunachal Pradesh Pickleball Association amongst others and the assurance of government support for infrastructure further demonstrate a commitment to making the NorthEast a hub for pickleball.”
PWR’s Role in Growth
The PWR system, which operates under IPA’s guidance, is helping professional pickleball grow across India. Bhullar said, “The adoption of the PWR system and the sanctioning of tournaments by the IPA will have a significant impact on the sport’s progress in India, particularly in the NorthEast.”
He added that the PWR gives players a clear ranking system. “By offering valuable ranking points, these tournaments will attract a higher level of competition. This, in turn, will elevate the overall quality of play and create a more professional environment for the sport.”
PWR’s Vision for the Future
Aditya Khanna, co-founder of the PWR, explained its broader goals. “PWR is rapidly expanding its presence with events being organized across various states and districts throughout India. Our vision is to build an inclusive sports ecosystem that caters to all age groups and skill levels.”
He added, “With over 10,000 players already participating in PWR events nationwide, we are proud to be one of the fastest-growing platforms in Indian sports.”
The PWR is also focusing on young athletes. Khanna said they are working to develop school-level and junior competitions, creating pathways for future champions.
Right now, PWR events are divided into seven levels: 50, 100, 200, 400, 700, 1000, and 2000. Beginner events encourage learning, while professional events include prize money of more than Rs 50 Lakhs.
Khanna said, “We wish to provide accessible, high-quality competitive experiences for players of all ages and abilities – from budding enthusiasts to seasoned professionals – across the entire nation. To create a nationwide ranking system and structured regional leagues that offer a clear and fair pathway for players of all levels – from school kids to senior pros – to progress toward top-tier events such as the Indian Pickleball League.”
He concluded, “Whether you are a student picking up a paddle for the first time or a seasoned competitor aiming for the top – your path is clear, and the stage is set.”
Why It Matters
The joint efforts of IPA and PWR are building a foundation for India’s future in pickleball. With government recognition, new centers, national rankings, and high-level tournaments, the sport is becoming more professional and accessible. These steps could make India a strong presence in international pickleball within the next five years.
News in Brief: Indian Pickleball Association Growth Strategy
The Indian Pickleball Association and Pickleball World Ranking system are working to make India a pickleball powerhouse. With government support, new centers, sanctioned tournaments, and the launch of the Indian Pickleball League, both organizations aim to improve talent, infrastructure, and rankings nationwide.
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