Sir Dorabji Tata was the first Indian representative in the IOC, Raja Randhir Singh is an honorary member as he was a member from 2000-2014.

The new targeted recruitment process of International Olympic Committee (IOC) members, as per recommendation 38 of Olympic Agenda 2020 (OA2020), has facilitated the nomination of Nita Ambani as a candidate for the membership to the IOC.

According to the IOC, the OA2020 focuses on the roadmap for the future of the Olympic Movement and also says that the 40 recommendations are like jigsaw puzzle pieces that, when put together, form a picture that shows the IOC safeguarding the uniqueness of the Olympic Games and strengthening sport in society.

Ms. Ambani is the founder and chairperson of the Reliance Foundation and she would be nominated, pending election, at the 129th IOC Session that will take place in Rio de Janeiro between August 2 and 4. Ms. Ambani can remain as IOC member till the age of 70.

“It is truly a honour and privilege to be nominated by IOC. I believe in the power of sport to shape our youth, to bring together communities and bridge gaps between cultures and generations. I am grateful to (the) IOC for this opportunity; it’s a recognition of India and Indian women. I am looking forward to the opportunity to contribute in meeting the goals of IOC,’’ said Ms. Ambani, the first Indian woman to get the honour, through a press release.

She is regarded as the chief architect of the Hero Indian Super League and also an inspirational figure of the IPL team Mumbai Indians.

It’s obvious that Ms. Ambani has been nominated by the IOC Members Election Commission (formerly the Nominations Commission) because she is deemed to possess “different sets of skills and knowledge” and will bring in “the necessary balance in terms of gender and geography.”

Potential candidates are required to furnish a complete CV, a motivation letter and sponsorship from three incumbent IOC members and face the chairman of the election commission in the first appraisal process.