Subject: Social Justice

The evolving landscape of sports in India presents a critical debate between proactive talent identification and post-achievement rewards, as exemplified by the recent success of athletes like Neeraj Chopra in the Olympics, highlighting the need for a balanced approach to sports development.

Merit of State-Sponsored Talent Hunt

• Early Identification: The Khelo India program has selected 2,745 athletes across 21 sports disciplines, ensuring systematic nurturing of sporting talent from grassroots level.

• Financial Support: Allocation of ₹3,794.30 crore to Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports (2025-26) demonstrates commitment to creating robust sports infrastructure and support systems.

• Performance Enhancement: Research indicates sponsored athletes perform 20% better in competitions, with 15% performance boost due to access to elite facilities and training.

• Inclusive Development: Integration of Para sports in talent identification programs ensures equal opportunities for differently-abled athletes.

Rationale of Reward Mechanism

• Monetary Incentives: Government's structured reward system (₹75 lakh for Olympic gold, ₹50 lakh for silver, ₹30 lakh for bronze) provides financial security to athletes.

• Social Recognition: Post-victory celebrations boost athlete morale and inspire younger generations to pursue sports careers.

• Limited Impact: Rewards, while motivating, don't address fundamental challenges like infrastructure gaps and early-stage training needs.

Way Forward: Balanced Approach

• Integrated Development: Combining early talent identification with performance-based rewards through programs like Target Olympic Podium Scheme (TOPS).

• Infrastructure Development: Utilizing allocated funds (₹1,000 crore for Khelo India) to create world-class training facilities.

• Professional Support: Providing specialized coaching, sports science support, and mental health assistance throughout an athlete's journey.

The synergy between systematic talent cultivation and reward mechanisms is crucial for India's sporting future. While state-sponsored talent hunt creates a sustainable pipeline of athletes, reward mechanisms serve as motivation multipliers. The success of programs like Khelo India and TOPS demonstrates that a balanced approach, combining both elements, is essential for achieving Olympic excellence and fostering a robust sports culture in India.