As India’s contingent of athletes get set to embark for Paris in a few weeks for the 2024 Olympic Games, it is clear that the preparations for this edition has been like none other. The minutes of numerous meetings held by India’s Mission Olympic Cell (MOC) over the past three years reveal the extensive support provided to over 100 hopefuls under the Target Olympic Podium Scheme (TOPS).
Several athletes have been stationed abroad in long training camps to aid their performance. Badminton star P V Sindhu for example, has been based in Germany since mid-June for a boot camp along with a full entourage including coaches and sparring partners. Table tennis player Manika Batra was provided with the same table that will be used at the Olympics to get accustomed to its characteristics.
Equestrian prospect Anush Agarwalla also benefited from specialized feed and equipment for his horse. Other athletes received advanced recovery tools and medical tests to maintain their health. Weightlifter Mirabai Chanu was given technology such as iPads and cameras to analyze her technique. The funding provided to the athletes goes well beyond traditional sports equipment and infrastructure, aiming to leverage cutting edge sports science support.
Overall, the MOC sanctioned over Rs. 72 crore under the TOPS for the Tokyo to Paris Olympic cycle, more than double the amount spent during the previous edition in Rio. Proposals from over 100 athletes were approved covering customized training programs along with equipment, logistics and medical support customized to their needs.
While expenditure does not guarantee success, federations of sports that contributed heavily to India’s previous medal haul have projected higher returns this time. Athletics, boxing, badminton, archery and weightlifting that contributed 5 of the 7 medals in Tokyo are aiming for 6-8 medals in Paris according to their estimates presented to the MOC. This points towards India having its best ever Olympics and coming closer to achieving double digit medals for the first time.
In comparison to less than a decade ago, when athletes often struggled for basic facilities and had to rely on their own resources, the preparation for Paris showcase Indian sport’s coming of age in terms of both scale and sophistication of support measures thanks to the rigorous planning of the Mission Olympic Cell.
