Indian athletes have been steadily making significant strides in various sports on the global stage, showcasing their talent and dedication. From the Olympics to world championships, they have achieved remarkable milestones, inspiring a new generation to pursue excellence in sports. However, despite these accomplishments, they often find themselves overshadowed by the immense popularity of cricket in the country, leading to a lack of recognition and appreciation from fans and the media alike.
Recent performances highlight the progress made. At the Paris 2024 Olympics, India secured six medals, including a silver and five bronze, with Neeraj Chopra continuing his dominance in javelin and Manu Bhaker making history in shooting. In the same year, Indian para-athletes had their best-ever Paralympics campaign, winning a record-breaking 29 medals. In other sports, Gukesh Dommaraju became the youngest-ever World Chess Champion, and the Indian cricket team won the T20 World Cup, breaking an 11-year trophy drought. These achievements are a testament to the hard work and dedication of the athletes and the support systems gradually being put in place.
President Droupadi Murmu acknowledged these advancements, noting the government's prioritization of sports infrastructure development. Initiatives like Khelo India and the Target Olympic Podium Scheme (TOPS) aim to identify and nurture talent at the grassroots level, providing athletes with better training facilities, coaching, and financial assistance. These programs have played a crucial role in India's improved performance in recent years. Khelo India, launched in 2018, has created a structured pathway for young athletes, from grassroots participation to elite competition. The program offers scholarships and supports athletes through accredited academies. Several athletes who participated in Paris 2024 Olympics were beneficiaries of the Khelo India program.
Despite these positive developments, a significant disparity exists in the attention and recognition afforded to athletes in different sports. Cricket, undeniably the most popular sport in India, dominates media coverage, sponsorships, and fan engagement. This leaves athletes in other sports struggling to gain visibility, attract sponsors, and build a strong fan base. Many talented sportspersons have brought medals to India, yet they remain far from the limelight, with no recognition or credit. This lack of recognition can be demoralizing for athletes who dedicate their lives to their respective sports.
The reasons behind this disparity are multifaceted. India has a long history with cricket, introduced during British rule, and it has since become ingrained in the nation's culture. The Indian Premier League (IPL) generates the highest television viewership, making cricket a lucrative sport for players and stakeholders alike. In contrast, other sports often lack the same level of media exposure and financial incentives. This disparity is further compounded by societal attitudes. Historically, there has been less emphasis on early talent development in sports other than cricket, with many young people encouraged to pursue traditional career paths instead. This cultural mindset needs to shift to foster a more inclusive and supportive environment for athletes in all sports.
To address this issue, several steps need to be taken. First, there needs to be a conscious effort to promote and support a wider range of sports. This includes increasing media coverage, providing financial assistance, and creating opportunities for athletes to showcase their talents. Second, grassroots development programs need to be strengthened to identify and nurture talent at a young age. This will require investment in infrastructure, coaching, and equipment, particularly in underserved regions. Third, efforts should be made to change societal attitudes towards sports, encouraging parents and educators to support young people who want to pursue a career in athletics. This involves creating awareness about the benefits of sports and the potential for athletes to achieve success on the global stage.
The path to progress is already visible with more people embracing multi-sport consumption. While cricket remains a national passion, many Indian sports fans now follow multiple sports, with Kabaddi and Football gaining traction. The popularity of sports leagues in Kho Kho and newer leagues in Hockey further underscores this trend.
By addressing these challenges and fostering a more inclusive and supportive environment, India can unlock its full sporting potential and ensure that all its athletes receive the recognition and appreciation they deserve.
