The Target Olympic Podium Scheme: Fueling India’s Olympic Dreams
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India’s journey to Olympic glory has been a story of grit, determination, and strategic planning. At the heart of this change lies the Target olympic Podium Scheme (TOPS), a flagship initiative by the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports.Designed to identify, nurture, and prepare India’s top athletes for the global stage, TOPS has become a cornerstone of the nation’s sporting ambitions.
What is the Target Olympic Podium Scheme?
Launched in July 2014 under the National Sports Advancement Fund (NSDF), TOPS aims to groom potential medal prospects for the Olympic and Paralympic Games. The scheme provides comprehensive support, including financial assistance, international exposure, and access to world-class training facilities. As of 2025, TOPS has been instrumental in shaping the careers of over 150 athletes across various disciplines, both able-bodied and para-athletes [[1]].
The program is divided into two groups: the Core group, which includes athletes with proven medal potential, and the Developmental Group, which focuses on nurturing young talent.This dual approach ensures a steady pipeline of world-class athletes ready to compete at the highest level.
A Glimpse into TOPS’ Impact
The numbers speak for themselves. In the Paris 2024 Olympic cycle, the government invested over INR 470 crores in TOPS, underscoring its commitment to sporting excellence. This funding has enabled athletes to train abroad, work with elite coaches, and compete in high-profile international events.
As Gopichand, the legendary badminton coach, aptly put it, “The last 10 years have been phenomenal for Indian sports in terms of the support the sportspersons are getting.Today, players are aspirational, and the government is wanting to make the sport big.”
Preparing for LA 2028: A New Chapter
With the Los Angeles 2028 Olympics on the horizon, TOPS is gearing up for its next big challenge. union Minister Mandaviya recently announced plans to induct a new batch of athletes into the scheme. “We have started the readiness for the LA 2028 Olympics. Various former sportspersons were a part of it.In the coming days, we’ll take a call on talent identification and how to nurture it,” he said.
The focus is not just on identifying talent but also on creating a robust ecosystem that supports athletes from grassroots to elite levels. As Narang, India’s chef-de-mission at the Paris Games, noted, “The (first MOC) meeting was very progressive and productive. Many points for the development of sports from grassroots to elite were discussed.”
A 360-Degree Approach to Sporting Excellence
Mandaviya emphasized the need for a collaborative approach to elevate India’s sporting ecosystem. “Winning medals in the Olympics is not a one-year or six-month job. It requires preparation well in advance,” he said.The government is working closely with National Sports Federations (NSFs), state governments, corporate houses, and NGOs to create a holistic support system for athletes.
This multi-stakeholder approach ensures that athletes receive not just financial backing but also access to cutting-edge technology, sports science, and mental health support.
Key highlights of TOPS
| Aspect | Details |
|————————–|—————————————————————————–|
| Launch Year | 2014 |
| Objective | Identify and groom potential medal prospects for Olympics and Paralympics |
| Funding | Over INR 470 crores spent in the Paris 2024 cycle |
| Athlete Groups | Core Group (medal prospects) and Developmental Group (young talent) |
| Focus for LA 2028 | Talent identification, international exposure, and strategic planning |
The Road Ahead
As india sets its sights on LA 2028, TOPS will play a pivotal role in shaping the nation’s Olympic aspirations. The scheme’s success lies in its ability to adapt and evolve,ensuring that athletes receive the best possible support at every stage of their journey.“Our ecosystem is pretty challenging with a diverse nation, diverse sports, and varied players coming from different ecosystems,” said Gopichand. Yet, with initiatives like TOPS, India is well on its way to becoming a global sporting powerhouse.
What are your thoughts on India’s Olympic journey? Share your views in the comments below and join the conversation about how we can support our athletes in their quest for glory.
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For more information on TOPS, visit the official Sports Authority of India website.
Fueling Olympic Dreams: The Target Olympic Podium Scheme
India’s rise on the world sporting stage has been remarkable. A key driver of this success is the Target Olympic Podium Scheme (TOPS), a government initiative designed to nurture India’s top athletes adn propel them towards olympic glory.
We sat down with Dr. Vijay Rajan, a leading sports policy expert, to delve into the intricacies of TOPS and its impact on India’s Olympic aspirations.
World Today News Senior Editor: Dr. Rajan, could you shed some light on the Target Olympic Podium Scheme and its goals?
Dr. Vijay rajan: Certainly! TOPS is a complete program launched in 2014 by the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports. its primary objective is to identify and support athletes with the potential to win medals at the Olympic and Paralympic Games. It provides a structured pathway, from grassroots growth to elite training, ensuring athletes receive the necessary resources and guidance at every stage of their journey.
World Today News Senior Editor: What are some of the key aspects of the TOPS scheme?
Dr. Vijay Rajan: TOPS is characterized by a multi-pronged approach. It offers financial assistance to cover training expenses, international exposure through competitions and training camps, access to world-class coaching and sports science support, and a focus on personalized development plans tailored to each athlete’s specific needs.
World Today News Senior Editor: How has TOPS contributed to India’s performance at international sporting events?
Dr. Vijay Rajan: TOPS has played a meaningful role in elevating India’s sporting prowess. You’ve seen the results in recent years – more athletes qualifying for the Olympics, improved performances, and, importantly, an increase in medal wins.The scheme fosters a culture of excellence and provides the infrastructure necessary for athletes to thrive on the global stage.
World Today news Senior Editor: With the Los Angeles 2028 Olympics in sight, what are the future plans for TOPS?
Dr. Vijay Rajan: Looking ahead, TOPS will focus on talent identification, especially among younger athletes.Expect an increased emphasis on scientific training methods, leveraging data analytics to optimize performance. There will also be a strong focus on mental health support and athlete well-being, as thes are crucial factors for success at the highest level.
World Today News Senior Editor: What message would you give to aspiring athletes who dream of representing India at the Olympics?
Dr. Vijay Rajan: India’s sporting landscape is evolving rapidly. TOPS is a testament to the government’s commitment to support athletes. Believe in yourself, work hard, and never stop pursuing your dreams. With dedication and the right support, anything is possible.
