The Mission Olympic Cell (MOC) of the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports (MYAS) has approved Asian Athletics Championship silver medallist Manu DP’s proposal to train in Potchefstroom, South Africa for 32 days. The decision was made during the 125th meeting of the MOC in New Delhi. Manu, who is currently training in ASI, Pune, will head to North West University High Performance Centre in Potchefstroom in the first week of March.
This approval comes as part of the Target Olympic Podium Scheme (TOPS), which aims to support athletes in their training and preparation for major competitions. Earlier this year, Olympic Gold medallist Neeraj Chopra’s proposal to train at the same location was also approved during the 124th MOC meeting. Chopra will be training at Gloria Sports Arena in Turkey for 79 days before the upcoming Paris Olympics.
In addition to Manu DP and Neeraj Chopra, the MOC also approved Indian shooter Esha Singh’s proposal for financial assistance towards ammunition testing and grip-making at Italy’s Pardini Factory. The MYAS will cover various expenses such as airfare, boarding/lodging costs, local transportation costs, and weapon servicing charges for the athletes under the TOPS funding.
During the meeting, the MOC also approved proposals for new javelins for para-athletes Navdeep Singh and Pushpendra Singh. This support from the MOC and MYAS is crucial in ensuring that athletes have the resources and support they need to excel in their respective sports.
