With the Paris Olympics just a few months away, the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports (MYAS) has taken a significant step to support India’s boxing contingent. The Mission Olympic Cell (MOC) has approved proposals for Nikhat Zareen, Preeti Pawar, Parveen Hooda, and Lovlina Borgohain to participate in a special training camp in Turkey.
TOPS Funding Provides Financial Assistance
The MYAS Target Olympic Podium Scheme (TOPS) will provide financial backing for the boxers’ training needs in Turkey. This includes airfare, accommodation, food, visas, coaching fees (for specific coaches), and physiotherapy expenses.
Beyond Boxing: Support for Wrestlers and Shooters
The MOC isn’t just focused on boxing. Five TOPS wrestlers, including Sujeet, Deepak Punia, and Naveen, will travel to Russia for training ahead of the Asian Olympic Qualification Tournament and Asian Championships. Similarly, shooter Bhowneesh Mendiratta will head to Italy to train under his personal coach for the upcoming ISSF World Cup in Baku. Financial assistance under TOPS will cover their training expenses.
A Timely Boost for Paris Olympics Aspirations
The MOC’s decision to approve foreign training camps for athletes across various disciplines is a welcome development. These training opportunities will allow Indian athletes to refine their skills. It will also help them gain exposure to international competition styles. Such camps can potentially improve their performance at the Paris Olympics. Financial backing through TOPS ensures that financial constraints don’t hinder their Olympic dreams. With these initiatives in place, India’s athletes are well-positioned to make a strong showing at the upcoming Games.
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