The Indian government, through the Sports Authority of India’s (SAI) Mission Olympic Cell (MOC), is making a monumental investment in the preparation of athletes for the upcoming Paris Olympics. An impressive ₹470 crore has been allocated to train 118 Indian athletes across 16 different disciplines, marking a significant boost in resources aimed at maximizing the country’s potential on the global stage.
Athletics has emerged as the largest beneficiary of this financial windfall, receiving ₹96.08 crore. This substantial funding will cover training camps, overseas tours, and overall athlete development. Much of India’s hopes rest on the shoulders of Neeraj Chopra, the javelin star whose gold medal in Tokyo had a profound impact on Indian athletics, encouraging the government to prioritize this sport heavily.
Badminton is another major recipient of funding, with ₹72.02 crore allocated to it. Top athletes like Satwiksairaj Rankireddy-Chirag Shetty and two-time Olympic medalist PV Sindhu are expected to spearhead India’s campaign in Paris, aiming to add more accolades to their illustrious careers.
The current allocation of ₹470 crore represents a staggering 1,685% increase from the previous Olympic cycle’s budget of ₹5.38 crore under the Target Olympic Podium Scheme (TOPS). This dramatic rise shows the government’s belief in the capabilities of Indian athletes and their potential to achieve historic success at the Olympics.
The funding breakdown by discipline highlights the strategic focus areas:
– Athletics: ₹96.08 crore
– Badminton: ₹72.02 crore
– Boxing: ₹60.93 crore
– Shooting: ₹60.42 crore
– Hockey: ₹41.29 crore
– Archery: ₹39.18 crore
– Wrestling: ₹37.80 crore
– Weightlifting: ₹26.98 crore
– Tennis, Golf, Sailing, Rowing, Swimming: Approximately ₹4 crore each
– Equestrian: ₹95 lakhs
This allocation ensures that a wide range of sports receive the necessary support to compete at the highest level.
This unprecedented financial commitment is aied at enhancing the performance and preparation of Indian athletes. The funding will facilitate advanced training programs, international exposure, and state-of-the-art facilities, providing athletes with every possible advantage as they prepare for the Paris Olympics.
Neeraj Chopra’s historic gold medal in Tokyo has set a new benchmark for Indian athletics, and the government’s investment reflects its aspiration to replicate and exceed such success. Similarly, PV Sindhu’s consistent performance at the highest levels has made badminton a key focus, with hopes of further Olympic glory.
The substantial increase in funding is a clear message that the Indian government is dedicated to transforming the nation’s Olympic fortunes. By providing comprehensive support to athletes, the goal is not only to win medals but to establish India as a formidable force in the international sports arena.
