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The recent Paris Olympics highlighted India’s evolving presence in global sports, with the nation securing six medals one silver and five bronze and finishing 71st in the medals tally. This performance has spurred discussions about the state of India’s sporting culture and whether cricket’s dominance has overshadowed other sports.

Comparing India’s Olympic Performance

Increased Visibility and Progress

It was observed that the visibility of Indian athletes at the Paris Olympics was markedly higher compared to previous years. This increased visibility could be attributed to either enhanced media coverage or a greater number of Indian athletes participating in the Games. The performance of Indian athletes in some events was encouraging, while the disappointment of narrowly missing out on medals in others was also noted.

Progress Since Previous Olympics

India’s sports achievements have seen progress since the 1996 Olympics, when the country won its first individual bronze medal in decades. The recent achievement of winning seven to eight Olympic medals across different sports reflects the nation’s growing focus on identifying and supporting young talent. However, the current support infrastructure remains inadequate, with improvements in sports science and infrastructure still needed.

The Role of Cricket in Indian Sports

Cricket’s Dominance

Cricket has experienced exponential growth in India, overshadowing other sports. Factors contributing to cricket’s dominance include the establishment of a strong infrastructure, the use of former players as coaches, and the creation of a robust domestic structure. In contrast, other sports in India have not evolved at the same pace, suffering from outdated systems and insufficient infrastructure.

While cricket enjoys immense popularity and attention, it does not mean that India is solely a one-sport nation. The focus on cricket is partly due to its popularity among the masses, leading to other sports receiving less attention and support, which can affect their performance and development.

Building a Year-Round Sporting Culture

Creating a Culture of Sports Enthusiasm

Sports enthusiasm should not be confined to Olympic cycles or the performance of star athletes. In the U.S., the passion for sports is ingrained in the community, with local sports events drawing significant attention and support. This widespread involvement in sports from a young age helps nurture future talent and fosters a culture of continuous engagement.

In India, there is a need for a cultural shift where sports are integrated into daily life and school curricula. Encouraging children to participate in sports regularly can build a stronger sporting culture. This shift requires changing societal attitudes towards sports and providing opportunities for children to engage in various sports activities from an early age.

Challenges and Recommendations for Indian Sports

Infrastructure and Support Systems

Challenges faced by Indian sports include inadequate infrastructure and a lack of professional management. Despite the government’s investments in sports, the perception remains that success is achieved despite systemic flaws rather than because of them. For instance, Bengaluru, a major city, has only one hockey ground, and there is a lack of sports complexes and arenas in many urban areas.

To address these issues, India needs to invest in building more sports facilities, ensuring they are accessible and well-maintained. Additionally, there is a need for professional management within sports organizations to ensure that funding and resources are effectively utilized.

The Role of Government and Private Sector

The discussion also touched on the role of government jobs in attracting children to sports. While government jobs provide significant incentives, this approach might not be the most effective way to foster a sports culture. Many athletes do not have access to insurance or pension benefits, which can hinder their long-term career prospects.

Instead of focusing on government jobs, it is important to emphasize education and skill development through sports. Sports should be pursued for personal development and enjoyment, rather than as a means to secure employment.

Government Initiatives to Improve India's Olympic Performance

Target Olympic Podium Scheme (TOPS)

The Target Olympic Podium Scheme (TOPS) is a flagship initiative aimed at providing comprehensive support to elite athletes. Launched in September 2014 and revamped in April 2018, TOPS offers athletes monthly stipends of ₹50,000, as well as funding for training camps, international competitions, and equipment.

Mission Olympic Cell (MOC)

The Mission Olympic Cell (MOC) is the dedicated body responsible for overseeing the implementation of TOPS. It regularly evaluates athletes' progress and needs to ensure they receive the necessary support for their development.

Khelo India Scheme

The Khelo India Scheme was introduced to promote sports at the grassroots level and to establish a strong foundation for sports in the country. Its key components include infrastructure development, talent identification, and coaching and training.

International Exposure and Training Camps

Athletes are provided with opportunities for foreign training and international competition. This exposure is crucial for gaining experience and improving performance on the global stage.

Recommended Strategies for Enhancing India’s Olympic Performance

1.    Broadening Participation in Various Sports India should focus on sending a larger pool of athletes to the 2028 Olympics by expanding its base in sports such as swimming and athletics. Continued excellence in sports like badminton, weightlifting, wrestling, and boxing is also essential.

2.    Addressing Bureaucratic Dominance and Corruption Indian sports bodies and federations need to be depoliticized and professionalized. Establishing professionalism in their operations will aid in the effective identification, grooming, and success of talented athletes at the highest level.

3.    Emphasizing Mental Conditioning The near-misses in recent Olympics, such as six fourth-place finishes, should be thoroughly analyzed. It is important to address any meltdowns under pressure and to employ more mental conditioning coaches to support athletes.

4.    Fostering Collaborative Efforts A united approach from all stakeholders in Indian sports is crucial. Federations, the Sports Authority of India, the Sports Ministry, and other NGOs need to work together with persistence and focus to achieve Olympic success over multiple cycles.

5.    Integrating Sports into the School Curriculum Sports and physical education should be incorporated into school curricula from an early age. As outlined in the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, sports should be considered an integral part of experiential learning, contributing to physical and psychological well-being.

6.    Establishing a National Sports Education Board The creation of a National Sports Education Board (NASECA) could help standardize sports education across the country. This body would oversee the development and implementation of a national sports curriculum.

7.    Promoting a Sports Culture Cultivating a sports culture is crucial for shifting societal attitudes to view sports as a legitimate career path rather than just a pastime. This can be achieved through community engagement, media campaigns, and initiatives within schools.

Conclusion

In conclusion, while India’s performance in the Olympics reflects progress in some areas, significant challenges remain. Investing in infrastructure, improving support systems, and fostering a year-round culture of sports can help India build on its achievements and create a more vibrant and competitive sporting landscape.

Source- The Hindu