The Indian government is contemplating a more selective approach to funding Olympic hopefuls through the Target Olympic Podium Scheme (TOPS). Following India’s performance at the Paris Olympics, where the country won six medals, discussions within the Mission Olympic Cell (MOC) are moving towards “cutting the flab” to ensure resources focus on athletes with genuine medal-winning potential as per Indian Express.
Slimmer Selection Criteria
At present, approximately 300 athletes across core and developmental groups benefit from TOPS, which provides funding and other support. However, MOC officials indicate that this number may be reduced by up to half if stricter selection parameters are adopted.
The primary aim of these changes is to prioritise athletes with a clear chance of securing a podium finish, reflecting the scheme’s goal of elevating Indian athletes to Olympic medal contention.
While no specific reductions in funding have been proposed, stricter criteria for selection have been suggested as a response to India’s somewhat modest showing in Paris. “The key benchmark is the ability to challenge for a medal, as the scheme’s name implies,” an MOC official explained.
New Accountability Measures
In addition to tougher selection criteria, the MOC is considering adding clauses to TOPS contracts that increase accountability. Many athletes, including some who have retired, have yet to submit financial statements detailing expenses, leaving around ₹10 crore in unsettled accounts.
While officials trust the athletes’ intentions, they believe these accounts need to be closed in an orderly manner. “We have no doubts over their intent; the money was sanctioned only after careful vetting, but the accounts need to be settled,” stated an official.
Mixed Reactions and Concerns
The idea of a slimmer, more targeted approach to funding has garnered mixed reactions. While some officials support the focus on medal-winning athletes, others worry this shift could jeopardise funding for many athletes who are still developing their skills.
Legendary shuttler Prakash Padukone, during the Olympics, had commented on how some athletes may have been “pampered to some extent,” suggesting that this may have impacted their competitive drive. The new proposal may seek to address this concern by encouraging greater accountability and ambition among athletes.
Target Asian Games Podium Scheme
The MOC is also revisiting an earlier proposal to introduce a Target Asian Games Podium Scheme. This initiative would support athletes capable of medalling at the continental level but who might not yet be at an Olympic level. This addition could ensure a broader pool of athletes continues to receive support while keeping the focus of TOPS strictly on Olympic potential.
As the MOC divides into sub-committees to develop policies tailored to specific disciplines, the future of Indian Olympic preparation seems geared toward a leaner, more results-oriented approach. With a renewed focus on accountability, performance, and medal-winning potential, TOPS aims to boost India’s presence on the Olympic podium in the years to come.
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