The Union Sports Minister has encouraged athletes to focus on delivering their best performances without feeling burdened by expectations. With the Paris 2024 Olympics just a few months away, the question of India’s readiness arises. The seven medals secured in Tokyo and the triumph at the Hangzhou Asian Games have heightened expectations, but the Olympics draw the world’s top talents, leaving no room for guarantees. However, with Neeraj Chopra leading the contingent, there is more than just a glimmer of hope.
Union Sports Minister Anurag Thakur provided insights into the country’s sports ecosystem and how the government is supporting athletes in their Olympic preparations.
Speaking about the preparation of Indian team for Paris Olympics, Anurag said, “While we do not have a particular number in mind, I am confident that our athletes will come home with India’s best haul in an Olympic Games. We have supported our athletes to secure qualification and prepare well for Paris 2024. Our athletes are fearless and compete on equal terms with the world’s best.”
Proactively elaborating on Government initiative in boosting the preparations, he added, “We have left no stone unturned in ensuring that maximum Indian athletes qualify for the Paris Olympic Games and are well prepared. More than 350 foreign exposure trips for training and competitions were sanctioned in select Olympic disciplines in this Olympic cycle. It has encouraged the athletes to be ready to deliver their best performances without facing the pressure of expectation.”
“As of now, 58 of our athletes have qualified for the Paris 2024 Olympic Games. For the first time, both the men’s and women’s Table Tennis teams have earned places in the Olympic Games draw. Similarly, India has won a quota each in women’s Skeet Shooting and in Equestrian (Dressage) for the first time. Prime Minister Narendra Modi has always motivated athletes to compete fearlessly in keeping with the brave new India that is emerging as a world leader in many areas. “
