Govt earmarks around Rs 260 cr for Olympic preparations

NEW DELHI: The government today announced that it has earmarked Rs 258.39 crore for the preparation of athletes for the London Olympics, under ' Project Opex 2012'.

Sports Minister Ajay Maken, while addressing a press meet, said the estimated amount is for a period of 16 months, starting April 2011.

16 disciplines, identified by the government for systematic and scientific training, will benefit from the programme.

The performance of Indian athletes at the Commonwealth and Asian Games made basis for the identification of the disciplines for the scheme.

The 16 disciplines identified are: Archery, Athletics, Badminton, Boxing, Gymnastics, Hockey, Judo, Rowing, Sailing, Shooting, Table Tennis, Taekwondo, Tennis, Weightlifting and Wrestling.

Maken said the Steering Committee of the ministry has finalised action plans in all 16 identified disciplines.

In the first round of meeting, the list of core probables, foreign and Indian coaches, support personnel, duration and venues of National Coaching Camps, International exposures and qualifying competitions have been identified.

The strategic planning for qualifying tournaments are being prepared by the national coaches in consultation with foreign coaches. A total of 28 foreign coaches have been selected for engagement. 17 coaches have joined and 11 are in the process of joining.