Photo via Hindustan Times

Asian Games: Ministry to review below-par performance of elite athletes under TOPS

Following the conclusion of the continental multi-sport event in Aichi-Nagoya, the national sports ministry has announced plans to evaluate the contingent's overall output, specifically probing why eighty-nine experienced competitors returned empty-handed. Out of that group, thirty-four individuals belonged to the Target Olympics Podium Scheme, which had backed them with substantial financial investments reaching 27.16 crore rupees toward specialized training camps, coaching personnel, and international exposure trips.

Despite a strong late surge that yielded eleven gold medals and secured a fourth-place standing with eighty-five total medals—falling short of the prior edition's benchmark of 106—authorities are questioning last-minute withdrawals due to injuries, notably involving Jyothi Yarraji and Praveen Chithravel after arriving in Japan. Consequently, the governing body is exploring a potential restructuring of the elite athlete framework to prioritize emerging talent, alongside scheduling discussions with respective sports federations this week.

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