#179: Sports Policy Compilation for Mains

Oct 30, 2023

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Every now and then India wakes up to Neeraj Chopra by-passing customs to bring home GOLD!

While the country is booming with talent, the magic also lies in policy! Sports schemes of govt. in this post for #UPSC Mains answers

1. Target Olympic Podium Scheme (TOPS)

Objective: To identify & support potential medal prospects for the Olympics and other international competitions (started in 2014)

• What does the scheme offer?👇🏼

a) financial assistance for training, coaching, equipment, and other necessary

b) world class facilities and support to enhance performance of athletes

The personalized attention we see to sports persons is a result of policy

eg: Neeraj’s training abroad is a result of personalized focus

2. Khelo India Scheme

Aims to:

• Provide financial support to identify & nurture young talent

• Develop infrastructure and organize competitions at various levels

Under this scheme,

Several competitions, talent search & development initiatives are taken up at grass root levels by Sports Authority of India (SAI)

3. Sports Authority of India Schemes (SAI)

• SAI training centers (STCs), Special Area Games (SAG) schemes

• It ensures training and support to athletes at different levels

• SAI is set u/ Societies Act of 1860

4. National Sports Development Fund (NSDF)

• Mobilizes resources from govt, private & people to develop sports in the country

• Talented athletes get financial cover for their training, coaching etc.

• Set up Charitable Endowments Act 1980

5. National Sports Talent Search Scheme (NSTSS)

• Focuses on 8-12 years of sportspersons

• Brings them in the system to offer training, education etc.

• Sports Talent Search Portal is live by Ministry to spot best talent

Other than these, sports federations also run their own programs in states

I’ll recommend you to find out such schemes of your respective state and quote them in your answers for unique pointers

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