New Delhi, Nov 14 (IANS): The International Boxing Association (AIBA) Friday approved Boxing India (BI) as a permanent member of the world body during the quadrennial Congress being held in Jeju, South Korea.

"We are extremely delighted to be unanimously accepted as the permanent member of AIBA, at the ongoing AIBA quadrennial Congress at Jeju island, South Korea. Boxing India carries the aspiration of the nation and will do its utmost to enable India win global acclaim in boxing," BI president Sandeep Jajodia said in a statement.

"Our immediate step now would be to get recognition from ministry of youth affairs and sports, Government of India, and membership from Indian Olympic Association (IOA)."

BI secretary-general Jay Kowli said that the federation will help Indian boxers to participate also in the AIBA Pro Boxing (APB) and World Series of Boxing (WSB).

"We are gearing up to immediately kick off all boxing programmes with AIBA for training, development and competitions. We will also strengthen our presence in the other formats of the competition - AIBA Pro Boxing (APB) and World Series of Boxing (WSB), as this will provide good exposure to our pugilists and will enhance their performance," said Kowli.