Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya, Union Minister for Youth Affairs & Sports and Labour & Employment, addressed the 44th General Assembly of the Olympic Council of Asia (OCA) held at Bharat Mandapam in New Delhi today. The event also saw the presence of Shri J. P. Nadda, Union Minister of Health & Family Welfare and Chemicals & Fertilizers; Smt. Raksha Khadse, Union Minister of State for Youth Affairs & Sports; Shri Raja Randhir Singh, President of OCA; and Smt. P. T. Usha, President of the Indian Olympic Association, among sports leaders from all 45 Asian nations.
In his address, Dr. Mandaviya highlighted the Government of India’s commitment to advancing sports through initiatives introduced over the past decade. He spotlighted the ‘Khelo India,’ ‘Target Olympic Podium Scheme (TOPS),’ and ‘Achieving Sports Milestone by Inspiring Women Through Action (ASMITA)’ programs, which have been instrumental in enhancing sports excellence and building a robust sporting culture in the country.
Dr. Mandaviya noted that under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership, the sports budget has surged from approximately USD 143 million in 2014-15 to about USD 417 million today. This significant funding boost has been pivotal in India’s impressive performance at recent Asian Games, where the country secured 107 medals, and the Asian Para Games, with 111 medals—setting new records.
He elaborated on the ‘Khelo India’ program, designed to encourage widespread sports participation and excellence. With an annual budget of USD 119 million, ‘Khelo India’ focuses on grassroots talent development and provides scholarships to over 2,700 children annually. The scheme organizes four Khelo India Games each year and has established more than 1,050 district-level centers to offer comprehensive support, including training, accommodation, nutrition, education, and allowances for young athletes.
Dr. Mandaviya also discussed the ‘Target Olympic Podium Scheme (TOPS),’ which aids athletes in their Olympic and international competition preparations. Out of the 117 athletes representing India at the Paris Olympics, 28 were part of the Khelo India program. Similarly, the Indian Paralympic team, which includes 18 Khelo India athletes, has achieved a record 29 medals at the ongoing Paris Paralympics 2024.
Additionally, he highlighted the ‘ASMITA’ initiative, aimed at promoting gender equality and increasing women’s participation in 18 different sports disciplines. He expressed optimism that these efforts align with Olympic ideals, contributing to Asia’s sporting heritage and inspiring future athletes.
Concluding his remarks, Dr. Mandaviya reaffirmed India’s dedication to upholding Olympic values, empowering athletes, and fostering a progressive sports environment. He also expressed pride in hosting the 44th General Assembly of the OCA and extended his best wishes to the delegates for productive discussions.
Shri Nadda also spoke, praising Prime Minister Modi’s advocacy for sports development since 2014. He highlighted key initiatives such as the Khelo India movement and the establishment of the National Sports University, which aim to promote sports and nurture talent across the country. He also commended the Olympic Council of Asia for its role in improving sports infrastructure and facilities for athletes.
