The Minister of State (I/C) for Youth Affairs and Sports Shri Vijay Goel said in the Lok Sabha today that the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports is regularly interacting with the Corporate and Public Sectors for contribution to the National Sports Development Fund (NSDF) for promotion of sports in the country.  They are also encouraged to contribute to the NSDF under CSR (Corporate Social Responsibility). Further, the apex industry bodies namely, FICCI, CII and ASSOCHAM are represented in the Council of NSDF. A statement giving details of contribution to the NSDF during the year 2014-15 to till date is attached as Annexure.

In a written reply he said Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports had formulated a programme namely, Target Olympic Podium (TOP) Scheme within the overall ambit of National Sports Development Fund (NSDF) with the objective of identifying and supporting potential medal prospects for Olympic Games.  The selected athletes are provided financial assistance for their customized training at Institutes having world class facilities and other necessary support.  Benchmark for selection of athletes under the scheme is in relation to international standards and consistency in performance.The athletes, who are prospective medal winners, have been identified through a process of research and consultation with the National Sports Federations and National Coaches/Experts of the relevant disciplines.  There have been annual/semi-annual review of performance of selected athletes.  The TOP Scheme continues for support of potential athletes for 2020 and future Olympic Games and other major international competitions.

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