Did MOC Induct 7 Compound Archers into the TOPS Core Group and Approve 56 Proposals?
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Synopsis
In a significant move, the Mission Olympic Cell (MOC) has inducted seven exceptional compound archers into the TOPS Core Group while also approving 56 proposals aimed at enhancing athletes' training and competition opportunities. This strategic initiative highlights India's commitment to excellence in sports as it prepares for the Los Angeles 2028 Olympics.
Key Takeaways
- Seven compound archers inducted into the TOPS Core Group.
- 56 proposals approved for athlete support.
- Significant funding of Rs 4.37 crore allocated.
- Focus on upcoming Los Angeles 2028 Olympics.
- Archers excelled at the Archery World Cup in Florida.
New Delhi, April 30 (NationPress) The Mission Olympic Cell (MOC) under the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports has welcomed seven compound archers into the TOPS (Target Olympic Podium Scheme) Core Group during its 155th meeting held on Wednesday.
The MOC acknowledged the International Olympic Committee’s (IOC) recent announcement to include compound archery in the upcoming Los Angeles 2028 Olympics. The meeting featured notable attendees such as Pullela Gopichand, Viren Rasquinha, Prashanti Singh, Kamlesh Mehta, MM Somaya, and Siddharth Shanker from the Reliance Foundation.
This marks the first occasion since the reintroduction of archery to the Olympic Games in 1972, where a new bow style has been incorporated into the events. The seven compound archers who have been inducted into the TOPS Core group include Ojas Pravin Deotale, Jyothi Surekha Vennam, Aditi Gopichand Swami, Abhishek Verma, Parneet Kaur, Priyansh, and Prathamesh Samadhan Jawkar.
Recently, these compound archers showcased their prowess at the Archery World Cup in Florida, USA, where India’s top compound archer Jyothi Surekha Vennam secured three gold medals.
She excelled alongside Aditi Swami and Parneet Kaur, winning the women's team gold medal. Jyothi further teamed up with Abhishek Verma to clinch the mixed team gold and triumphed over Mexico’s Andrea Becerra to claim the individual gold medal.
In the men's category, the team comprising Abhishek Verma, Priyansh, and Prathamesh Fuge won the gold medal, while Priyansh earned a silver medal.
To qualify for induction into the TOPS Core, these seven archers met the eligibility requirements of achieving an average arrow score of 9.77+ for men and 9.67+ for women, in addition to being medallists at the recently concluded World Championships or World Games, reaching a top-4 rank in the team event, or being individual/team medallists in the last Asian Games.
Furthermore, the MOC approved 56 proposals across various disciplines within TOPS, Teams, and TAGG (Target Asian Games Group), amounting to Rs 4.37 crore, as reported by the Sports Ministry.
The MOC granted financial aid to long jumper Shaili Singh for her participation in the UAE Grand Prix on May 9 and the UAE Athletics Women’s Gala on May 11, 2025. Shaili, aged 21, recently broke a 23-year-old record held by legendary athlete Anju Bobby George with a leap of 6.64 meters at the Federation Cup in Ernakulam.
The MOC also approved Nikhat Zareen’s request for financial support for a 17-day training program in Tashkent with Uzbekistan’s elite women’s team from May 8 to 23, covering her travel, accommodation, and other expenses.
Additionally, table tennis players Manika Batra and Sreeja Akula received financial assistance to compete in the ITTF World Championship in Doha, Qatar, scheduled from May 17 to 25.
Equestrian athlete Fouaad Mirza, a silver medallist at the 2018 Asian Games, will also get financial backing to participate in 18 events until December 2025, covering various expenses.
The MOC approved a funding request from 15-year-old Maaya Rajeswaran for 22 international competitions and training at the renowned Rafa Nadal Academy in Mallorca, Spain, through December 2025. Maaya is currently the youngest tennis player ranked in the top 700 of the WTA.
Moreover, fencer Bhavani Devi will receive support for a 150-day international training camp in Italy with coach Cristian Bauer, as well as for competing in five international events.
The MOC also approved a request from cyclist Harshita Jakhar for financial aid to purchase a specialized road time trial bike valued at Rs 14.40 lakh.
Lastly, Nishad Kumar, a silver medallist at the Paralympics, received approval for training in Chula Vista, USA, for 60 days, while Sumit Antil, a two-time Paralympic gold medallist, will receive support to participate in the Nottwil World Para Athletics Grand Prix 2025.
Point of View
The induction of these seven archers into the TOPS Core Group signifies a robust commitment to nurturing talent and enhancing India's presence on the global sports stage. By approving substantial financial support across various disciplines, the MOC demonstrates a forward-thinking approach, aligning with the nation’s aspirations for excellence in upcoming international competitions.
NationPress
15/06/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the TOPS Core Group?
The TOPS Core Group is a part of the Target Olympic Podium Scheme aimed at providing support to select athletes for their preparation and participation in the Olympics.
Who are the newly inducted archers in the MOC?
The newly inducted archers are Ojas Pravin Deotale, Jyothi Surekha Vennam, Aditi Gopichand Swami, Abhishek Verma, Parneet Kaur, Priyansh, and Prathamesh Samadhan Jawkar.
What financial support was approved by the MOC?
The MOC approved financial assistance amounting to Rs 4.37 crore for 56 proposals across various sports disciplines.
What events are the approved athletes competing in?
The approved athletes are competing in various events, including the upcoming ITTF World Championship, international training camps, and competitions in equestrian and athletics.
How does the MOC support athletes?
The MOC supports athletes through financial assistance for training, competition expenses, and resources needed for their development and success in sports.
