The Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports (MYAS) Mission Olympic Cell (MOC) has approved financial assistance for Indian tennis star Sumit Nagal, Shooter Arjun Singh Cheema and other upcoming athletes under Target Olympic Podium Scheme (TOPS) funding.

Sumit Nagal and other athletes get Financial Assistance

Sumit Nagal, who has been making waves in the international tennis circuit, will receive financial assistance to participate in two international competitions. This decision comes after Nagal’s meteoric rise in the tennis world, where he has made significant strides in the last two and half months.

The financial assistance will cover Nagal’s tournament expenses, including accommodation, airfare, coaching, and costs for physiotherapists, mental trainers, and fitness coaches. This support is crucial for Nagal, who had faced financial difficulties in the past.

Nagal’s journey in the world of tennis has been remarkable. From being ranked No. 638 in the world in October 2022, he has made a significant leap in his career. His impressive performance at the Australian Open men’s singles, where he defeated Alexander Bublik, and his victory at the Chennai Open have contributed to his rise in the ATP Rankings. With the French Open, Wimbledon, and US Open coming up, this financial assistance will be instrumental in helping Nagal stay on top of his game.

In addition to Nagal’s financial assistance, the MOC has approved proposals for other athletes as well.

Arjun Singh Cheema, an upcoming shooter, has also been granted financial assistance by the MOC. Cheema’s request for financial assistance towards participation in the ISAS Dortmund Competition was approved. The financial assistance will cover his airfare, accommodation costs, coaching fees, and physio/fitness coach/mental trainer fees.

Equestrian Anush Agarwalla has received approval for participation in eight competitions and procurement of essential equipment for his horses. The Target Olympic Podium Scheme (TOPS) funding will cover accommodation costs for Agarwalla and his coach, along with entry fees, horse feed costs, coach fees, and expenses for horse grooms.

Judoka Asmita Dey has been granted financial assistance to support her participation in the Grand Prix in Austria.

Additionally, the MOC has given the green light for hiring a video analyst for Badminton players Chirag Shetty and Satwiksairaj Rankireddy, along with extending the contract for weightlifter Jeremy Lalrinnunga’s physiotherapist. Financial assistance has also been approved for track athlete Amoj Jacob to acquire upgraded training equipment, enhancing his preparation for upcoming competitions.

The decision to provide financial assistance to these athletes is part of the government’s efforts to promote sports and nurture talent in the country. The financial assistance is provided under the Target Olympic Podium Scheme (TOPS) funding, which aims to provide support to potential medal prospects for the Olympics.

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