The Asian Games, also known as Asiad, is a multi-disciplinary sports event held once every four years among athletes from all over Asia. The Games were first held in New Delhi, India in 1951, and have been held 18 times since then. The event is recognized by the International Olympic Committee and is the second-largest multi-sport event after the Olympics. The Asian Games Federation regulated the Games from the first event until 1978, after which the Olympic Council of Asia took over. The purpose of the Asian Games is to foster friendship through sports and contribute to world peace by recognizing diversity. The Official Programme of the Asian Games includes all the Olympic Sports and events, as approved by the International Olympic Committee, as well as five regional sports and two sports proposed by the Asian Games Organizing Committee and approved by the OCA Executive Board. The Asian Games is a significant event that brings together athletes from all over Asia to compete in various sports and promote peace and friendship.