Sri Lanka, Jan. 10 -- Suresh Kalmadi, who was one of Asia's most influential and active sports administrators, passed away in India.

He was widely respected for his long-standing contributions to athletics administration at national, continental and global levels.

Kalmadi entered international sports administration through the Athletics Association of India during the 1980s. Over the years, he served with distinction as President of the Asian Athletics Association (AAA) and as the Asian Area Representative in World Athletics.

He also held office as President of the Indian Olympic Association (IOA) and served as Chairman of the 2010 Commonwealth Games held in Delhi, earning recognition as a veteran sports administrator.

Kalmadi served...