In a significant move to enhance India’s representation at the upcoming Paris Olympics, the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports’s Mission Olympic Cell (MOC) has given the green light to racewalker Priyanka Goswami’s proposal for training in Australia. Priyanka, who made history by becoming the first Indian athlete to qualify for the Paris Olympics, will undergo intensive training at a high-altitude center near Canberra, Australia, under the guidance of coach Brent Vallance. To ensure comprehensive preparation, she will also participate in local competitions in the lead-up to the Olympics.
The financial support approved by the Ministry covers a spectrum of expenses, including airfare, boarding and lodging, sports science support, coaching fees, and out-of-pocket allowances, as highlighted in the ministry’s official release on Friday.
In addition to Priyanka’s proposal, MOC has given the nod to the Target Olympic Podium Scheme (TOPS) Development group for Greco-Roman wrestlers Ashu (67kg), Suraj (55kg), and Ronit Sharma (48kg) to attend an international training camp in Almaty, Kazakhstan. The government will bear the expenses for the wrestlers, their coach, physiotherapist, and sparring partners, encompassing airfare, boarding and lodging, and out-of-pocket allowances.
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Further expanding its support, the Ministry has also approved financial assistance for shooter Bhowneesh Mendiratta’s weeklong training with foreign coach Daniele Di Spigno during the 2nd selection trials. The TOPS initiative will cover airfare, coaching fees, visa costs, and boarding and lodging for the designated period.
Additionally, MOC has greenlit proposals for various athletes, including financial assistance for shooter Ramita’s shooting kit, archer Yashdeep Bhoge’s procurement of archery equipment, and para-athlete Pranav Soorma’s acquisition of sports equipment (Clubs).
Paddler Manika Batra receives financial assistance for participation in WTT Feeder Biella, Italy, while badminton players Kidambi Srikanth and HS Prannoy gain support for their multiple competitions, ensuring a well-rounded backing for Indian athletes on the international stage.
-IANS
