The Mission Olympic Cell (MOC) approves funding for HS Prannoy's trainer, extends support to several other athletes
With less than a week until the Paris Olympics 2024, excitement is building as the Indian team is aiming to return with a record medal haul. India is sending a contingent of 117 athletes, who will be accompanied by 140 support staff, to the French capital.
In the run-up to the games, the Government of India's Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports’ Mission Olympic Cell (MOC) has approved the request for financial assistance for various athletes.
The MOC has sanctioned funding for shuttler HS Prannoy’s trainer, Rohan George Mathews, who will travel with the Asian Games medalist to Paris. This financial support will cover all essential expenses, including airfare, boarding and lodging, visa fees, daily fees, local transportation, and medical expenditures. Additionally, Mathews will receive an OPA for the duration of the Olympics.
The Mission Olympic Cell (MOC) also extends support to several other athletes
In addition to Prannoy, the MOC has extended its support to several other athletes. Proposals from Vikash Singh, Suraj Panwar, Ankita Dhyani, Sarvesh Kushare, and shooter Anantjeet Singh Naruka have been approved, facilitating their access to essential training and competition equipment.
Vikash Singh is all set to take part in the 20km racewalk in Paris, while Suraj Panwar will participate alongside Priyanka Goswami in the 20km racewalk mixed team event. Ankita Dhyani and Sarvesh Kushare, on the other hand, will be seen in action in the 5000m race and the men’s high jump event, respectively. The funding approved for training and equipment for the athletes is crucial for their preparation and performance at the Olympics.
The MOC has also approved a proposal for Indian rifle shooter Rudrankksh Patil. Rudrankksh Patil is a two-time gold medalist at the World Championships and has also won two gold medals and two bronze medals at the World Cups. Despite winning an Olympic quota for India, Patil failed to make the cut for Paris in the trials.
The proposal for Patil includes financial assistance for specialized training in Serbia. Patil, who usually competes in the 10m Air Rifle event, is now also preparing for the 50m 3P event, and under the guidance of 2020 Olympic bronze medalist Sebic Milenko, he will undergo an intensive 20-day training program.