NEW DELHI: Union Minister of Youth Affairs & Sports and Labour & Employment, Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya, addressed the 44th General Assembly of the Olympic Council of Asia (OCA) at Bharat Mandapam in New Delhi today. Union Minister of Health & Family Welfare and Chemicals & Fertilizers, J. P. Nadda, Union Minister of State for Youth Affairs & Sports, Smt. Raksha Khadse, President, OCA, Raja Randhir Singh and President, Indian Olympic Association, Smt. P. T. Usha was also present on the occasion, along with sports leader from all 45 Asian countries.

During his speech, Dr. Mandaviya informed the delegates about the various initiatives undertaken by the Government of India in the last 10 years to promote sports excellence and foster a strong sporting culture across the country. He emphasized the pivotal role of Government programs like ‘Khelo India,’ ‘Target Olympic Podium Scheme (TOPS),’ and ‘Achieving Sports Milestone by Inspiring Women Through Action (ASMITA)’ in elevating sports standards nationwide.

Dr. Mandaviya highlighted that under the dynamic leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the government has significantly increased the sports budget from approximately USD 143 million in 2014-15 to around USD 417 million today. This investment has contributed to India's outstanding performance at the Asian Games, securing 107 medals, and at the Asian Para Games, winning 111 medals — achievements that have surpassed all previous records, he added.

He elaborated on the ‘Khelo India’ scheme, which aims to foster a mass movement for promoting sports excellence across the country. With an annual budget of USD 119 million, the scheme covers grassroots talent identification and development, and provides scholarships to more than 2,700 children each year. Dr. Mandaviya further stated that four Khelo India Games are conducted annually, with over 1,050 district-level centres established to develop sustainable sports infrastructure and provide training, accommodation, diet, education, and allowances to young athletes.

Additionally, he explained that the ‘Target Olympic Podium Scheme (TOPS)’ supports athletes in their preparation for the Olympics and other international competitions. Notably, out of the 117 athletes representing India at the Paris Olympics, 28 were Khelo India athletes. Similarly, India’s Paralympic team, featuring 18 Khelo India athletes, has already secured 29 medals — the highest ever at the ongoing Paris Paralympics 2024.

Union Minister also shed light on the ‘ASMITA’ program, a transformational initiative aimed at advancing gender equality and enhancing women’s participation in sports across 18 disciplines. He expressed confidence that these collaborative efforts align with the Olympic ideals, strengthening Asia's sporting legacy and inspiring future generations.

Concluding his address, Dr. Mandaviya reiterated India's commitment to promoting the values of the Olympic movement, empowering athletes, and fostering a progressive sports environment. He also expressed the nation's honour in hosting the 44th General Assembly of the Olympic Council of Asia and wished the delegates success in their deliberations.

Speaking during the occasion, Shri Nadda stated that since 2014, Prime Minister Narendra Modi has been a strong advocate for the development of sports in India. Under his leadership, several initiatives have been launched, such as the Khelo India movement and the establishment of the National Sports University, aimed at promoting sports and nurturing talent across the country, he mentioned.

He also recognized the contributions of the Olympic Council of Asia in enhancing sports infrastructure and providing better facilities for athletes.

Source: PIB