India performed poorly in the Paris Olympics 2024. The nation won 6 medals, 1 silver, and 5 bronze in the multinational event. The athletes failed to perform under pressure. They missed their chances of winning the medals, as most of the athletes finished in the 4th position for India. After the horrendous performance of the nation, the fans were also disappointed with the athletes and the sporting infrastructure of India.
After the horrifying display in Paris, the Government is considering “cutting the flab”. From its flagship Target Olympic Podium Scheme (TOPS). Therefore the Indian Olympic hopes may no longer get unfettered access to public funds for their preparation for the major event. As per Indian Express, the move is being debated within the Mission Olympic Cell (MOC). The high-powered council of former athletes, coaches, government officials, and administrators.
Along with this new selection standards might be approved in the coming weeks. TOPS provides financial support to around 300 athletes from both core and developmental groups. According to one MOC official, if the selection procedures become more stringent, the number might be cut in half. There has been no move to restrict funding. But it was urged during an assessment of the country’s dismal performance at the Paris Olympics. Only competitors who truly satisfy the requirements should receive TOPS money.
India’s Olympians paying the price for fiscal austerity
Is this ‘Cutting the Flab’ a smokescreen for abandoning India’s Olympic athletes? The key benchmark to compete for a medal, as implied by the scheme’s name, was suggested as the main benchmark. Another element that is likely to be introduced to new contracts for the 2028 Olympics cycle is accountability. According to sources, many athletes have yet to submit their bills, and charges of “Rs 10 crore are yet to be settled.”
The primary topic of post-Paris discussion has been about revamping how athletes are funded. During the Olympics, veteran shuttler Prakash Padukone stated that players were “maybe to some extent” spoiled, which hampered their will to win. The most recent suggestions, however, do not have unanimous support, as officials from some sports fear that many of its athletes would be withdrawn.
