New Delhi, July 19, 2025 – Home Minister Amit Shah announced that the government will hand out Rs 50,000 each month to about 3,000 athletes. This is to help India climb into the top five spots in the medal count at the 2036 Olympics. It’s part of a bigger push to get the country ready for the games, which India wants to host too.
HM Amit Shah spoke at a gathering to honor Indian police and fire teams who won big at the World Police and Fire Games in the US. He said this support falls under the Target Olympic Podium Scheme, or TOPS. The money helps athletes train and get better without worrying about costs. It’s aimed at building a strong team over the next few years.
What the Support Means for Athletes
The Rs 50,000 per month goes straight to the athletes picked for the program. Right now, it’s set for around 3,000 people across different sports. This cash can cover things like coaching, travel, and gear. Shah mentioned it’s all about preparing for 2036, when India hopes to shine on the world stage.
Officials say this is a step up from past efforts. In the last 10 years, the sports budget has jumped five times under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership. That means more money for training centers and events. The Fit India Movement has also helped, leading to three times more medals in big games like the Olympics and Asian Games.
Athletes get picked based on their skills and potential. The government wants to spot talent early, even from villages, and train them right. Shah stressed that sports teach lessons like handling wins and losses, which build strong habits.
Amit Shah’s Take on the Big Picture
During his talk, HM was clear about the goals. He said India is bidding to host the 2036 Olympics and feels sure about landing in the top five for medals. “We’re making a detailed plan for it,” he added, pointing to the monthly aid as a key part.
He tied this to other changes, like updating rules to help police and security folks play sports more. Shah wants every officer to start days with parades and end with games to cut stress and improve work. He even urged teams to aim for at least three medals each in future events.
The home minister praised recent wins, like the 613 medals from the police games. He handed out over Rs 4 crore in rewards there. Shah sees this as proof India can compete globally if everyone pushes hard.
How This Fits with India’s Sports Growth
Over the years, the government has built new spots for training and games. HM noted that under PM Modi, sports got a real boost with more cash and focus. Things like the TOPS scheme are now helping thousands gear up for big events.
India’s also looking to host other major games, like the Commonwealth and Asian Games. The idea is to make sports a normal part of life for everyone. Shah said the only place to learn real skills is on the field, where you build drive and learn from setbacks.
This monthly help isn’t just for now. It’s part of a long plan to pick and train kids from all ages and areas. Scientific methods are in use to find the best talents and get them ready.
What’s Ahead for the 2036 Push
Looking forward, HM is hopeful. He thinks these steps will put India among the top nations by 2036. The next World Police and Fire Games in 2029 will be in Gujarat, and he wants teams to break records there.
For athletes, this means steady support to chase dreams. The government plans to keep expanding, with better coaches and medical help for injuries. Shah promised full backing from the sports ministry to make it happen.
People online are sharing the X post, excited about what this could mean for Indian sports. It’s a sign of growing pride in the country’s athletes. More details might come as plans roll out, but for now, it’s a solid start toward that top-five spot.
