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Source: The post is based on the article “Keep Running – Athletics medal chances depend on not just picking winners but investing to create a large talent pool” published in The Times of India on 29th August 2023.
Syllabus: GS 2 – Governance – Government Policies & Intervention
Relevance: Achievements of Indian athletes
News: The article explains the recent achievements by Indian athletes at the World Athletics Championships and more measures needed to enhance sports in India.
What are some of the recent achievements made by Indian athletes?
Neeraj Chopra won India’s first gold at the World Athletics Championships.
The men’s 4×400 relay team secured fifth place setting an Asian record.
Parul Chaudhary broke the national record and qualified for the Paris Olympics in women’s 3000m steeplechase.
What has enabled these achievements?
A decade ago, India’s global athletics performance wasn’t impressive.
However, recent success has been possible due to a model that links talented athletes with global trainers and resources. This model is supported by entities like JSW Foundation.
Moreover, the government has also increased the funding for the sports sector and has allowed top athletes to train according to their preferences.
Must Read: Sports sector in India: Issues and challenges – Explained
What lies ahead?
This approach has shortcomings, and it would only benefit a few.
Therefore, to enhance India’s sports sector – a) India’s basic sports infrastructure should be improved, b) sports organizations need to work better, c) talent scouts must be very good at finding talented athletes, and d) stakeholders should understand that, just like in technology, sports also involve substantial failure rates.
