Introduction
According to Olympic 2024 News, the Summer Olympics in Paris will see a massive increase in India’s investment in athletics. Neeraj Chopra’s historic gold medal at the Tokyo 2020 Olympics has driven this change. The Indian government has spent a record Rs 470 crore across 16 disciplines, aiming to improve India’s medal tally and performance at the Games. The Paris Games will take place from July 26 to August 11.
Record Investment in Athletics
Impact of Neeraj Chopra’s Gold Medal
During the Tokyo Olympics, India achieved its best-ever medal haul, winning seven medals overall. Neeraj Chopra’s gold medal in javelin throw, only the second individual gold for India after Abhinav Bindra, has significantly influenced the funding allocation for athletics. According to the Sports Authority of India’s Mission Olympic Cell (MOC), the Centre has spent an impressive Rs 96.08 crore on athletics alone, making it the highest-funded discipline for the Paris Olympics.
Comparison with Previous Olympic Cycle
In the previous Olympic cycle, the sports ministry allocated Rs 5.38 crore to athletics under the Target Olympic Podium Scheme (Tops). This means the budget for athletics has seen a remarkable increase of nearly 1,685 percent. This boost in funding underscores the government’s commitment to improving India’s performance in athletics on the global stage.
Breakdown of Funding for Other Disciplines
Second Highest Funding for Badminton
Following athletics, badminton has received the second highest funding for the Paris Olympics, with an allocation of Rs 72.02 crore. This investment aims to build on the success of Indian shuttlers in recent international competitions.
Significant Investments in Boxing and Shooting
Boxing and shooting have also seen substantial funding, with Rs 60.93 crore and Rs 60.42 crore allocated respectively. These investments reflect the potential and past successes of Indian athletes in these disciplines.
Funding for Hockey and Other Sports
The Indian hockey team, which won a bronze medal at the Tokyo Olympics, received Rs 41.29 crore. Archery received Rs 39.18 crore, while wrestling and weightlifting received Rs 37.80 crore and Rs 26.98 crore respectively.
Lower Budgets for Tennis, Golf, and Other Sports
Other sports, such as tennis, golf, sailing, rowing, and swimming, have each received a budget of less than Rs 4 crore. Despite lower funding, these sports remain essential to India’s diverse Olympic representation.
Least Funded Discipline: Equestrian
Equestrian, a discipline related to horse riding, received the least funding at close to Rs 95 lakh. This reflects the relatively lower prominence and participation levels in this sport within India.
Leading the Charge: Neeraj Chopra and the Athletic Contingent
Neeraj Chopra’s Role and the 28-Member Contingent
Neeraj Chopra will lead a 28-member contingent of athletes in Paris, aiming to improve India’s athletic record at the Games. Chopra’s leadership and performance are expected to inspire and motivate the entire team, driving them towards achieving greater success.
India’s Overall Representation
With an overall representation of 118 athletes, India aims to make a strong impact at the Paris Olympics. The significant investment in various disciplines is a testament to the country’s ambition and commitment to excelling on the global stage.
Conclusion
Neeraj Chopra’s historic gold medal at the Tokyo Olympics has not only elevated his status as a national hero but also catalyzed a substantial increase in funding for athletics in India. As the Paris Olympic 2024 News approach, the record investment of Rs 470 crore across various disciplines underscores the country’s determination to enhance its performance and achieve new heights. With a strong contingent of athletes and robust financial support, India is poised to make a significant impact at the Paris Olympic 2024 News. Stay updated with the latest from IPL365.
