Bhawani Prasad Paudel was elected as the president of the South Asian Tug of War Federation at a convention in Delhi, India on March 3, 2024. Representatives from about 20 Asian countries attended the convention. A new committee of the South Asian Tug of War Federation was formed with Bhawani Prasad Paudel as its leader, who also serves as the President of Nepal Tug of War Association. This federation plays a crucial role in promoting and expanding the sport of Tug of War in South Asian countries at various levels. Each country's representative is tasked with advancing the game and increasing its popularity among the youth. Bhawani Prasad Paudel holds other notable positions such as the President of the Nepal Tug of War Association, the President of HISSAN Bagmati, and the Campus Chief of Jaya Multiple Campus. College Readers recently interviewed him, and here are some highlights:

How do you feel about being elected as the president of the South Asian Tug of War Federation?

I am excited and grateful to have the wonderful chance to lead South Asia from Nepal. The South Asian countries have placed their trust in me, and I am dedicated to playing a key role in advancing the sport of tug-of-war in Nepal and across South Asia.

What is the main objective of the Tug of War game?

Tug of War has a rich history in Nepal, commonly seen during fairs, festivals, and special events. Recognized as a national game in 2060 B.S., it holds mythological significance according to the National Sports Council. Upholding its distinct rules and regulations, the game involves 8 players on each side of the rope and can be enjoyed by both genders. The primary goal is to advance its popularity, integrating it into educational institutions.

Internationally, Tug of War varies across regions due to political and geographical influences. Our future endeavors include fostering friendly competition among South Asian nations. We aim to host the South Asian Open Championship and the South Asian Championship, where expenses differ. In the former, participating countries cover all costs, while in the latter, the host nation covers accommodation expenses excluding travel costs for participants.

When considering the economic aspects of sports, games like cricket and football are quite expensive. However, is Tug of War a more economically beneficial sport?

Tug-of-war is more cost-effective and time-efficient compared to sports like football and cricket. It necessitates minimal equipment such as a sturdy rope, a playing area, referees, and judges, unlike the resource-intensive and time-consuming nature of football and cricket.

Could you please elaborate on your plans for organizing the games in Nepal and other countries?

In Nepal, our inaugural game is scheduled for the year 2024/25. As the president, it is my duty to oversee this event. We engage in virtual meetings via Zoom with committee members hailing from various nations. While the exact date is pending confirmation, the game will undeniably take place in Nepal. Lumbini, the sacred birthplace of Gautam Buddha, stands as our preferred venue due to its allure for tourists and participants worldwide. Alternatively, Pokhara or Kathmandu are viable locations.

We require referees, judges, player selection, and training. Will the National Sports Council assist or do you have internal management?

We have referees and judges at the South Asian level, and our first task is to provide them with international-level training. The South Asian Tug of War Federation will assist us in this endeavor. We plan to select national-level referees and judges from every country and provide them with international-level training. We are confident that the Nepalese government and National Sports Council will support us in this initiative, as it will benefit the sports field and help elevate Tug of War to a national game.

What are your plans and strategies during your tenure as president?

The term is 3 years. As the president of the South Asian Tug of War Federation, my primary goal is to foster friendship and mutual understanding among South Asian Countries, promoting unity through sports. Another key objective is to enhance and popularize the sport of Tug of War, particularly within SAARC nations. Additionally, we will conduct training sessions for referees and judges, as well as organize numerous competitions. Establishing strong connections between each member country and the South Asian Tug of War Federation is also a crucial aim. We will serve as a bridge between member nations and the South Asian Tug of War Federation. My strategy involves ensuring equitable progress across all member states, increasing the participation of players, referees, and judges, and elevating the popularity of the Tug of War sport.

It's been 20 years since Tug of War was first registered with the National Sports Council, and you are now serving your second term. The game has seen rapid growth, and I'm curious how you have managed to accommodate all the interested candidates who want to participate in these events?

The popularity of the tug-of-war game has remained stagnant since it was registered 20 years ago. During my presidency, I attended a seminar in Singapore and subsequently established national committees to develop the game in Nepal. These committees were also set up at the provincial, district, and local levels. Some schools and colleges have formed tug-of-war committees, and there are committees for entities such as the Army, Police, and APF. These committees are dedicated to promoting the tug-of-war game. My aim is to not only expand the game nationally but also across South Asian countries.