In a significant boost for athletes set to represent the state at the upcoming Paris Olympics and Paralympics, the state government has announced financial support of Rs 50 lakh each. The funds, aimed at aiding their preparations, come just days before the games are scheduled to commence on July 26.
Under the Mission Olympics initiative, part of the broader Mission Target program to enhance athlete capabilities for securing medals, a batch of six athletes selected for the Paris Olympics will receive the financial assistance. Among them are Avinash Sable, Sarvesh Kushare, Abha Khatua (athletics), Chirag Shetty (badminton), Vishnu Sarvanan (sailing), and Swapnil Kusale (shooting).
Additionally, six para-athletes gearing up for the Paralympics next month will also benefit from this support. The athletes include Mansi Joshi, Sukant Kadam, Bhagyashree Jadhav (para badminton), Suyash Jadhav (para swimming), and Sachin Khilare (para athletics).
“This financial aid is crucial for our athletes to optimize their preparations,” remarked a state government official, who spoke on the condition of anonymity. The delay in disbursing the funds, attributed to bureaucratic processes, has been noted as a setback that could have been avoided.
The announcement underscores the state’s commitment to nurturing sporting talent and ensuring competitive success at international events.