Mirabai Chanu’s Paris Training Approved by Mission Olympic Cell Ahead of Tokyo Olympics

New Delhi: The Mission Olympic Cell (MOC) of the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports (MYAS) has given the green light to weightlifter Mirabai Chanu’s proposal to undergo training at LA FERTE-MILON, Paris, in preparation for the upcoming Olympic Games. The decision was made during the 126th meeting of the MOC.

Mirabai Chanu, who clinched a Silver Medal in the Tokyo Olympics, will travel to Paris almost a month prior to her scheduled Olympic event. This strategic move aims to help her acclimatize to the local weather conditions and fine-tune her preparations for the mega event.

Accompanying Mirabai during the Paris training camp will be two coaches and a physiotherapist. The expenses for air tickets, visa, accommodation, food, training costs, local transportation, medical insurance, and sauna charges, among others, will be covered under the Target Olympic Podium Scheme (TOPS) funding.

In addition to Mirabai Chanu’s proposal, the MOC has also approved various requests from athletes across different disciplines. Equestrian player Anush Agarwalla’s proposals, including participation in eight competitions and purchasing equipment for his horses, received approval. The TOPS funding will cover accommodation costs, entry fees, coach fees, and other essential expenditures.

The MOC has further greenlit Judoka Asmita Dey’s request for financial assistance to participate in the Grand Prix in Austria and shooter Arjun Singh Cheema’s financial assistance application for the ISAS Dortmund Competition.

Newly inducted Indian Tennis sensation Sumit Nagal’s appeal for financial aid towards participating in two international competitions, along with expenditure for his support staff, was also approved. The TOPS funding will cover airfare, accommodation costs, coaching fees, and fees for physio/fitness coach/mental trainer.

Several other proposals were approved during the MOC meeting, including financial assistance for hiring a Video Analyst for badminton players Chirag and Satwik, an extension of the contract for weightlifter Jeremy Lalrinnunga’s physiotherapist, and financial aid towards purchasing equipment for track athlete Amoj Jacob.

The MOC’s proactive approach towards supporting athletes in their preparations underscores the government’s commitment to nurturing and promoting sporting excellence on the international stage. The approved proposals represent a collective effort to ensure that Indian athletes are well-equipped and prepared for success in their respective competitions.