“Power vision matters more than power house; collective focus essential for Mission Olympic”
Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar : “The political manoeuvres surrounding the Maharashtra Olympic Association elections will not benefit anyone. For the long-term progress of Maharashtra sports, everyone must work together,” said Adille Sumariwalla, newly elected unopposed Vice President of the Maharashtra Olympic Association (MOA).
The elections for the MOA are scheduled to be held on November 2. The vice-presidential race featured four prominent figures — Adille Sumariwalla, Pradeep Gandhe, Prashant Deshpande and Dayanand Kumar — all of whom were elected unopposed.
In an exclusive interaction with Sports Plus, Sumariwalla spoke candidly about the working of the Association, the future of Maharashtra’s athletes, the role of coaches and physical education teachers, and the modernization of sports infrastructure in the state.
Strong Leadership and Maharashtra’s No. 1 Position
Under the leadership of Deputy Chief Minister Ajitdada Pawar, who is also the current President of the MOA, and with the guidance of General Secretary Namdev Shirgaonkar, the Association’s work has moved in the right direction, Sumariwalla said.
“The main proof of that is Maharashtra’s consistent dominance in the last three National Games. The state has been No. 1, emerging champions in the last two editions. When things are running well, internal fights in the name of change are unnecessary. Those who work well should get an opportunity,” he emphasized.
Speaking about his support for senior players taking leadership roles, Sumariwalla added, “Ashok Pandit is a very accomplished shooter. He has my full support for the post of Senior Vice President. We have always maintained that sportspersons should play an active role in administration. Now that a player of Ashok Pandit’s calibre is contesting, everyone should stand firmly behind him.”
“I’m not interested in politics; I’m here for sports development”
“I have absolutely no interest in politics,” Sumariwalla said firmly. “However, for sports to develop, political leaders, top athletes, administrators, and government officers all need to collaborate. The ultimate target must always be sports development.”
He pointed out that Maharashtra’s athletes have consistently excelled in recent years — “In the last three National Games, Maharashtra has dominated. In the last two editions, Maharashtra emerged as champions. That shows the MOA’s work is moving in the right direction. So, one must ask — is there really a need to overhaul a system that’s delivering results? When things are going well, internal fights will only derail progress.”
“Fighting helps no one; collective effort is the need of the hour”
“Quarrels and divisions will only harm Maharashtra’s sporting ecosystem,” he continued. “Instead, all stakeholders should come together for the state’s long-term interest. The Commonwealth Games 2030 are coming to Ahmedabad, and India is actively pursuing the bid for the 2036 Olympic Games. This is the time to build a nationwide sporting environment – and Maharashtra should be leading from the front.”
“Given Maharashtra’s dominance in the last three National Games, our athletes are expected to form a major part of India’s Commonwealth contingent. The focus should be on ensuring they win more medals for the nation. That’s the real mission — not internal politics,” Sumariwalla emphasized.
“Power vision, not power house, will drive progress”
“Power vision is more important than power house,” he remarked. “Every system has shortcomings, but we must identify and correct them to keep Maharashtra at the top. Disputes never bring progress; they only cause damage. We must open our eyes – in the end, it’s the one who works who truly wins. Kaam karne wala hi Sikandar hota hai.”
Asked about his priorities after the elections, Sumariwalla outlined a clear roadmap:
“Right now, Maharashtra is number one in the National Games, and we must maintain that position. My focus will be on preparing a strategic plan for future growth, strengthening sports infrastructure, and aligning all stakeholders with one common vision — Mission Olympic. Success in this mission is everyone’s responsibility. I’ll appeal to all — Mil ke kaam karte hain (Let’s work together).”
“Athletes first must become a reality, not a slogan”
Reflecting on the broader direction of Indian sports, Sumariwalla said, “We must focus on development, not power struggles. Sports administration is not about grabbing positions. The phrase Athletes First has been repeated for 40–50 years, but I have yet to see it truly implemented. It’s time to upgrade our athletes, coaches, and sports facilities in a meaningful way.”
“Through the Athletics Federation, we’re planning several major competitions in the near future. These will provide our athletes with exposure and opportunities, and the results will show in the coming years. I’m not after power; my priority is my work. In sports, nothing is impossible. After Neeraj Chopra’s Olympic gold, an Olympic medal no longer feels like a distant dream for India,” he concluded.
“The responsibility has grown” – Prashant Deshpande
“It is indeed a matter of happiness to be elected unopposed as the Vice President of the Maharashtra Olympic Association, but with it comes greater responsibility,” said Prashant Deshpande.
“In the present circumstances, being elected unopposed is quite satisfying. In the previous term, I served as Joint Secretary, and now I have been entrusted with a larger role,” he said.
“Under the leadership of Ajitdada Pawar, as President, and with the guidance of General Secretary Namdev Shirgaonkar, the Association has made remarkable progress in several areas — athlete welfare, coaching programmes, and the Olympic Bhavan project, among others. As a result, Maharashtra’s contingent has remained at the top in the National Games for three consecutive years — a matter of great pride for the state,” Deshpande noted.
He further added, “Everyone must stand behind this collective effort. In the coming years, special emphasis will be placed on enhancing facilities for athletes and strengthening coordination with all state sports associations. Our common goal is to ensure that Maharashtra continues to lead Indian sports.”
