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India is brimming with confidence in its Olympic contingent's performance in the Paris Olympics, thanks to a combination of factors including the successful 'Khelo India' program, Haryana's strong sporting tradition, and a data-driven approach to athlete development. The article highlights the role of 'Khelo India' in identifying and nurturing young talent like Manu Bhaker, the first Indian woman to win an Olympic medal in shooting. Bhaker's achievement serves as a prime example of the program's effectiveness in fostering a new generation of athletes.
Haryana's contribution to the Indian Olympic contingent is particularly noteworthy, with 24 of the 117 athletes hailing from the state. This emphasizes Haryana's rich sporting heritage and its commitment to nurturing athletic talent. The article also underlines the importance of the Target Olympic Podium Scheme (TOPS), a program that focuses on providing individualized support and resources to medal-prospect athletes. TOPS, coupled with the government's Mission Olympic Cell's weekly performance reviews, has ensured a holistic approach to athlete preparation, including international training camps and upgraded facilities in India.
The government's shift to 'athlete-centric' and 'data-driven' decision-making has been instrumental in creating a conducive environment for athletes to flourish. This emphasis on supporting athletes' specific needs and utilizing data to optimize training and performance strategies is a key factor in India's optimistic outlook for the Paris Olympics. The article concludes by emphasizing that the combined efforts of 'Khelo India,' Haryana's talent pool, and the government's strategic approach have created a strong foundation for India to achieve its best-ever Olympic performance.
The success of 'Khelo India' is evident in the fact that 25% of the Indian contingent at the Paris Olympics are 'Khelo India' athletes. The program has provided a platform for young athletes to showcase their talents, receive financial assistance, and benefit from specialized training. The emphasis on grassroots development has revitalized the sporting culture in India, creating a pipeline of future Olympic contenders.
Source: Khelo India, Haryana & Manu Bhaker: Why India Has High Hopes from Paris Olympics