Kayaking and canoeing are becoming increasingly popular in India, thanks to the country’s abundant rivers and lakes. These sports have particularly taken off in states like Uttarakhand, Himachal Pradesh, and Kerala, where natural water bodies offer the perfect setting for training and competitions. The 2024 Indian Kayaking and Canoeing Championship, held on the Tehri Dam Reservoir, attracted participants from all over India and was a key step in promoting these sports.

The Indian Kayaking and Canoeing Federation (IKCF) has been working tirelessly to increase participation by organizing national events and collaborating with international kayaking and canoeing organizations. Athletes like Arjun Thakur and Neha Joshi have emerged as India’s top prospects, with Arjun securing a gold medal in the K-1 200m event at the championship.

India’s international success in kayaking and canoeing is still developing, but the future looks promising. Training programs are expanding, and with the right investment in infrastructure and coaching, India could soon become a competitive force on the global stage in these water sports.