Why in the News?

Kirsty Coventry, aged 41, has become the first African and the first woman to head the International Olympic Committee (IOC).

Also in news:

The IOC has paused the selection process for future Olympic Games hosts, impacting India’s bid for the 2036 Olympics.

Overview: It is a non-governmental international organisation established in 1894, and is headquartered in Lausanne, Switzerland.
Functions: It sets the rules and framework for the Olympic Games, including deciding on host cities and event structures.
Membership: IOC members must be proficient in French or English and be citizens or residents of countries with a National Olympic Committee (NOC).
Jurisdiction: The IOC acts as the final authority on matters related to the Olympic Games and the Olympic movement.
Indian and the IOC:
- The Indian Olympic Association (IOA) has been recognized by the IOC since 1927.
- It is responsible for selecting and sending Indian athletes to the Olympics and other major international competitions.