Om Prakash Karhana Appointed Chef-de-Mission for India at Dakar 2026 Youth Olympics

Former shot-putter and Asian Championships gold medallist Om Prakash Karhana has been named the chef-de-mission for the Indian contingent at the upcoming Youth Olympic Games in Dakar, Senegal. Reports indicate that the 35-member Indian delegation will feature 17 athletes.

According to official reports, the Youth Olympic Games are scheduled to begin on Saturday and run until November 13. The 39-year-old Karhana, who recently served as an outgoing member of the Indian Olympic Association’s athletes commission, previously worked as the Safeguarding Officer for the Indian contingent at the Asian Youth Games last year.

Contingent and Support Staff Details

• Total Indian Delegation: 35 members, including 17 athletes.
• Athlete Breakdown: Six male and 11 female athletes representing India across 11 disciplines.
• Support Staff Approved by Sports Ministry: 12 coaches, four physiotherapists, and one doctor.

Global Participation and Historical Context

Around 2,700 athletes representing 207 countries are expected to compete across 25 disciplines in this age group category of 15 to 18 years. Official records note that this represents the smallest athletic contingent sent by India to the Youth Olympic Games since their inception in 2010.

India's most successful outing at the event remains the 2018 edition, where the country secured 13 medals, comprising three gold, nine silver, and one bronze.

Practical Implications and Verification

Fans and stakeholders following the Indian contingent's progress can verify official schedules, medal tallies, and updates through the official channels of the Indian Olympic Association (IOA) or the International Olympic Committee (IOC). It is advisable to consult official press releases and accredited sports news platforms for confirmed event timings and results.