After a very dismal performance by the Indian contingent, Prime Minister Narendra Modi has announced the formation of a task force. The team will prepare a comprehensive action plan for the upcoming three Olympic Games and submit before the government. The Sports ministry will then take appropriate action, which includes starting training camps. Even though the whole Indian contingent comprised of around 118 athletes, India could win only one and a bronze medal. Even reputed players like Saina Nehwal kicked out of the Olympics during the initial stages itself. It was PV Sindhu’s determination which won her a Silver medal. After grabbing the first set from her opponent, she desperately lost after losing the final two sets.
The task force formed by the Government include experts from both India and abroad. They will prepare a detailed report on sports facilities, training, and selection of athletes for not only the 2020 Tokyo Olympics but also 2024 and 2028. To win a medal in Olympics, player’s needs to be fit enough to compete with powerful players around the world.
Poor training facilities
According to sources, the poor performance of India at the recently concluded Rio Olympics has been attributed to the poor facilities and training. With so many stadiums around India, we still don’t have the required infrastructure for practicing sporting events like athletes.
Dipa Karmakar reached top despite poor training
In addition to Sindhu and Sakshi, gymnast Dipa Karmakar also played very well to reach the fourth spot. She narrowly missed the Bronze medal by only a few points. Dipa was a real champion of the Rio games. However, the champion has to train herself on makeshift equipment created out of the parts of an old scooter by her coach.
Kalmadi era not wiped out. Political influence continues
There is a widespread criticism against the influence of politicians in both national and state level sports bodies. When our Indian contingent worked hard to win medals, few politicians were spotted wandering in beaches during the Olympics.