NEW DELHI: Sports Minister Mansukh Mandaviya convened a meeting on Friday to discuss the readiness of Indian athletes for the upcoming Paris Olympic Games.
He urged all parties involved in the preparation process to prioritise the mental and physical well-being of the elite competitors, ensuring they are in optimal condition to perform at their best on the international stage.
India will be represented by a contingent of 118 athletes, with an impressive 48 women among them, participating across 16 different sports disciplines.
Notably, 72 of these athletes have secured their spot at the Olympic Games for the very first time, while 26 have emerged through the government's flagship initiative, "Khelo India," which aims to nurture and develop sporting talent in the country.
"As our athletes enter this critical phase of preparation and competition, it's essential that we ensure they are in the best physical and mental condition to excel," PTI quoted Mandaviya as saying, while chairing a high-level meeting to review India's preparation for the Olympics.
The ministry has set up a coordination group to provide comprehensive assistance to athletes and tackle any problems that may occur before and during the Paris Games. This step aims to ensure that the athletes receive all the necessary support they need.
The minister was pleased to note that more than 80 per cent of the qualified athletes are currently undergoing training at different facilities across Europe. This arrangement will help the athletes adapt to the conditions and avoid any issues related to acclimatisation.
"The government is committed to providing comprehensive support to Indian athletes through the Target Olympic Podium Scheme (TOPS), ensuring they have the best possible preparation for the Paris 2024 Olympics," said a sports ministry statement.
"This includes the engagement of world-class coaches and experts to enhance training programs, organising competitive exposures to give athletes vital experience, and taking initiatives focused on rehabilitation and injury management.
"For the first time, a recovery centre with sports science equipment will be available for Indian athletes at the Games Village. Additionally, India House has been set up at the Park of Nations in Paris, joining 14 other countries, including France, with similar houses. Importantly, all decisions are made with a focus on the athletes' needs and perspectives," the statement added.
"These efforts underscore the dedication to optimizing athletes' performance and well-being, demonstrating a strong commitment to their success and achievement," said the statement.
