Nita Ambani, chairperson of Reliance Foundation and noted sports promoter was elected as an individual member of International Olympic Committee on Thursday. She has become the first Indian woman to join the prestigious body.

Nita Ambani was nominated by IOC Executive Board in June and was elected as member on Thursday just a day before the opening ceremony of the 31st Olympics Games in Rio de Janeiro.

She is the only current active individual member from India and she will serve till the age of 70.

Former Indian Olympic Association Secretary General, Randhir Singh, who served as IOC member from India from 2001-2014, is currently an honorary member of the world body.

The grassroots programmes that she has initiated have reached out to over 3 million children in multiple sports. She is involved in promoting multiple sports in India with focus on developing talent through a number of large-scale grassroots initiatives.

As founder and chairperson of the Reliance Foundation, Nita has been steering initiatives in the area of education, sports, health and art and culture. She is the architect of Indian Super League which has helped in raising the profile of Indian football.

"I am truly humbled and overwhelmed to be elected by the IOC. This is a recognition of the growing importance of India in the world stage and a recognition for Indian women," Nita said in a release.

"I have always believed in the power of sport to shape our youth. I believe that sports brings together communities, cultures, and generations has the power to unify and unite people. I look forward to spreading the spirit of Olympics and sports across our nation," she added.

Also Read: In photos: Nita Ambani visits Hyd temple

BY M. DIVYA SRI