The Indian Olympic Association was recognized by the International Olympic Committee on 31 December 1926. However, by this time, they had already competed in three Summer Olympic Games, in 1900, 1920, and 1924. India has participated in every Summer Olympics since 1920. The nation did not make its first Winter Olympics appearance until the 1964 Winter Olympics. With India missing the Winter Olympics from 1972–1984 and in 1994, Turin marked India's seventh appearance at a Winter Olympics. The 2006 Winter Olympics were held from 10–26 February; a total of 2,508 athletes representing 80 National Olympic Committees took part. The Indian delegation to Turin consisted of four athletes, two in alpine skiing, one in cross-country skiing, and one in luge. Alpine skier Neha Ahuja was the flag bearer for both the opening ceremony and the closing ceremony.