Witnessing the resurgence

PT Usha

As I reflect upon my journey as a sportsperson in India and now as the first female president of the Indian Olympics Association, I am overwhelmed with a deep sense of pride and fulfilment. The phenomenal turnaround in Indian sports over the past nine years, under the visionary leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, has been truly awe-inspiring. From transformative infrastructure developments to focused training programmes and increased funding, our nation has witnessed an unprecedented rise in sporting achievements.

One of the most remarkable aspects of this turnaround in Indian sports is the incredible performance of women athletes, particularly those hailing from rural and underprivileged backgrounds. Despite facing numerous challenges, these women have displayed unparalleled determination and resilience. Their remarkable success at the international level in disciplines such as athletics, hockey, badminton, table tennis, wrestling, weightlifting, and boxing, among many other sports, is a testament to their indomitable spirit and unwavering dedication.

Prime Minister Modi's personal connection with sportspeople has been truly inspiring. His unwavering support and genuine interest in the athletes’ well-being have created a strong sense of belief and motivation. The Prime Minister’s interaction with athletes, his words of encouragement, and his keen interest in their progress have instilled a sense of pride and responsibility within the sporting fraternity. This personal connection has gone a long way in building confidence and a winning mindset among Indian athletes.

The Indian government's increased budget allocation for sports has been a significant driving force behind our success. Recognising the transformative power of sports, the government has consistently prioritised sports funding, resulting in enhanced infrastructure, training programmes, and athlete welfare. The increased financial backing has provided athletes with the necessary resources to compete at the highest level without financial constraints, ensuring that their focus remains solely on achieving sporting excellence.

The Khelo India initiative has been instrumental in fostering a sporting culture and creating a strong grassroots foundation. This programme has not only encouraged participation in sports but has also provided crucial support and guidance to young athletes. By organising inter-school and inter-college competitions, Khelo India has unearthed hidden talents from all corners of the country. The programme has given young athletes the belief and platform to dream big, igniting a passion for sports and paving the way for future champions.

The Fit India Movement, launched by Prime Minister Modi, has been a catalyst for transforming the nation's fitness and well-being landscape. By emphasising the importance of an active lifestyle, the movement has motivated millions of Indians to embrace sports and prioritise their health. This shift towards a fitter and healthier nation has directly contributed to the success of our athletes, as physical fitness forms the cornerstone of sporting excellence.

One of the most impactful initiatives that has propelled Indian sports to new heights is the Target Olympic Podium Scheme (TOPS). The implementation of TOPS has been a game-changer, as it identifies and nurtures the finest sporting talents in the country. Through this scheme, athletes receive world-class training, specialised coaching, and financial support, ensuring that they have all the necessary resources to excel on the global stage. The focus on individualised attention and personalised training programmes has undoubtedly played a pivotal role in our athletes' exceptional performances.

Additionally, the establishment of National Centres of Excellence (NCOEs) has revolutionised the sporting landscape in India. These centres provide state-of-the-art infrastructure, cutting-edge training facilities, and access to top-tier coaches and support staff. The NCOEs have become hubs of excellence, where athletes receive world-class training and are exposed to international standards. This has significantly contributed to their development and helped them realise their true potential.

Thanks to the Prime Minister's unwavering focus on sports and the government's holistic approach towards sports development, India has achieved unprecedented success at international events. Our athletes have scaled new heights, clinching medals and setting records at the Olympics, Asian Games, Commonwealth Games, and World Championships. Indian sports are now celebrated globally, and our athletes are looked upon as true champions.

I have always strongly believed that sports are a potent tool for socioeconomic development. Young Indians being exposed to sports will go a long way in improving their physical health and building character, which will go on to contribute significantly to societal reform and our human capital. The Indian Olympic Association, along with Hon'ble PM Narendra Modi Ji's government, which has just completed its 9th year successfully, is collectively working towards ensuring our youngsters play a lot more sports, such that we as a country march ever nearer to the great Olympic ideal of ‘Citius, Altius, Fortius," meaning faster, higher, and stronger!