Indian weightlifting star Mirabai Chanu is leaving no stone unturned in her quest for Olympic gold! The Mission Olympic Cell (MOC) under the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports (MYAS) has approved her proposal to train in La Ferte-Milon, Paris. This strategic move allows Chanu, who clinched a silver medal at the Tokyo Olympics, to acclimatize to the local weather conditions nearly a month before her competition. This will ensure she performs at her peak when it matters most.
But Chanu won’t be going solo. To maximize her training effectiveness, she’ll be joined by two coaches and a physiotherapist, forming a dedicated support team. The Target Olympic Podium Scheme (TOPS) steps in here, generously covering all expenses associated with the training camp. This includes airfare, visas, accommodation, meals, training costs, local transportation, medical insurance, and even sauna charges. This comprehensive support demonstrates the government’s commitment to providing Indian athletes with the resources they need to excel on the world stage.
The MOC’s support, however, extends far beyond Mirabai Chanu. Several other promising athletes received funding approvals, paving the way for their Olympic aspirations:
- Equestrian player Anush Agarwalla will not only compete in eight competitions but also receive financial assistance to purchase horse equipment. This ensures their well-being and optimal performance during the events, making him a strong contender.
- Judoka Asmita Dey will get a financial boost to participate in the Grand Prix, in Austria. This crucial competition is an opportunity to gain valuable experience and ranking points in the judo world, propelling her towards Olympic qualification.
- Shooter Arjun Singh Cheema’s participation in the ISAS Dortmund Competition will also be supported. This international exposure allows him to hone his skills against top competitors, sharpening his focus and refining his technique for future challenges.
- Rising tennis star Sumit Nagal will compete in two international tournaments with his support staff’s expenses covered under TOPS. This comprehensive backing will be instrumental in propelling Nagal’s development as he strives for a place on the Olympic podium. He can now fully concentrate on his game, knowing his team’s travel and accommodation needs are taken care of.
The MOC’s commitment goes even further. They approved financial aid for hiring a video analyst for the talented badminton duo Chirag Shetty and Satwiksairaj Rankireddy. This analyst will provide critical insights based on video footage of their matches, helping them refine their strategies and identify areas for improvement. Additionally, the extension of weightlifter Jeremy Lalrinnunga’s physiotherapist contract ensures continuity in his injury prevention and recovery program. This allows Lalrinnunga to train intensely without worrying about potential injuries, maximizing his chances of peak performance in the lead-up to the Olympics. Finally, track athlete Amoj Jacob will receive financial assistance for equipment purchases. With access to the latest technology, Jacob can optimize his training and push his limits, inching closer to his Olympic goals.
With this multi-pronged approach, the MOC fosters a supportive environment for Indian athletes across various disciplines. From pre-Olympic training camps to equipment acquisition and coaching support, the focus is on empowering these talented individuals to achieve peak performance and bring home Olympic glory. Mirabai Chanu’s training camp in Paris serves as a prime example of this dedication, and it’s sure to inspire other athletes as they gear up to make their mark on the world stage. The MOC’s strategic investments are a testament to India’s commitment to nurturing its sporting talent and emerging as a global powerhouse in the future.
