Government to Tighten Funding for Indian Olympic Athletes

The Indian government may soon tighten its flagship Target Olympic Podium Scheme (TOPS), potentially limiting public funds for Olympic athletes in preparation for the 2028 Olympics. This proposed reform, currently being evaluated by the Mission Olympic Cell (MOC)—a high-profile committee with former athletes, coaches, and officials—could see stricter selection guidelines implemented within the coming weeks, as noted by two panel members from the committee.

Presently, approximately 300 athletes receive support under TOPS across core and developmental groups. However, under the revised guidelines, this number may be significantly reduced to include only athletes with strong medal potential. An official suggested that the number of beneficiaries could be cut by half, though the budget remains unchanged. This re-evaluation comes after India’s six-medal performance at the Paris Olympics, which included one silver and five bronze. To maintain the program’s focus, officials recommended restricting funding to athletes who meet stricter performance-based criteria.

Another key proposal for the 2028 Olympic cycle is an accountability clause. Currently, around Rs 10 crore in expenses remains unsettled due to pending documentation. This includes retired athletes who have yet to clear their accounts. Officials emphasized there is no mistrust regarding the expenditures, as all proposals are carefully reviewed. However, they stated that settling accounts is crucial for maintaining transparency.

Post-Paris Olympics, discussions around optimizing athlete funding have gained traction. Celebrated badminton player Prakash Padukone highlighted that the ease of funding may have reduced athletes’ competitive hunger. This view has reinforced the idea that only medal-potential athletes should benefit from TOPS, aligning with the program’s mission.

The proposed changes have faced some resistance, as certain sports administrators worry about losing funding for their athletes under the new, more rigorous guidelines. To address diverse needs, the MOC has divided into sub-committees to establish sport-specific selection policies. Discussions have also resumed regarding a Target Asian Games Podium Scheme, focusing on supporting athletes competitive at the continental level but not yet ready for the Olympics.

Athletes benefiting from TOPS enjoy unique privileges, such as personalized coaching and training programs if approved, a support structure rarely available through other funding sources. Those not selected for TOPS may still receive government support through other initiatives but typically do not have access to tailored training unless they are backed by private sponsors.

Image Credits: Times Of India

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