ROSA KHUTOR, Russia (AFP) - The Indian flag was raised at the Sochi Winter Games on Sunday in a symbol of the country's return to the Olympic fold after the lifting of a ban imposed over corruption concerns.

The International Olympic Committee (IOC) on Tuesday ended the 14-month ban, reinstating India with immediate effect.

It meant the handful of Indian athletes competing at the Games are able to do so under their national flag and they will be able to walk behind their flag at the closing ceremony.

The Indian flag was raised at a ceremony at the Rosa Khutor mountain cluster Olympic Village, at a ceremony attended by newly elected Indian Olympic Association President N. Ramachandran and Indian athletes including veteran luger Shiva Keshava.