Sahdev Yadav has been elected unanimously as president of the South Asian Weightlifting Federation (SAWF) during the federation’s election meeting held in Ahmedabad, Gujarat, on May 12.
Yadav is currently serving as president of the Indian Weightlifting Federation. He also holds several 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 placed in his leadership, vision and contribution towards the development and promotion of weightlifting across India, South Asia and the international sporting community.
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Speaking on the occasion, Yadav thanked all member nations and officials for their 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 programmes, coaching standards, infrastructure and international participation.
Sabina Yadav, member of the Innovation Committee of the International Weightlifting Federation and joint secretary of the Indian Weightlifting Federation, has been appointed chief executive officer of the South Asian Weightlifting Federation.
Newly elected office-bearers and members
President: Dr Sahdev Yadav, president, Indian Weightlifting Federation
General secretary: Ram Krishna Sreshtha, president, Nepal Weightlifting Federation
Vice-presidents: Ibrahim Hameed, president, Maldives Weightlifting Federation; Sanka Ratnayake, president, Sri Lanka Weightlifting Federation
Chief executive officer: Sabina Yadav, joint secretary, Indian Weightlifting Federation
Executive board member: Shahria Sultana, Bangladesh Weightlifting Federation
Published on May 14, 2026