The Indian Olympic Association (IOA) is taking steps to improve the lives of former Olympians by introducing medical health insurance and a pension scheme. This initiative was proposed by IOA president PT Usha, who was moved by the financial struggles of former Olympian Limba Ram, who suffered a brain stroke and required financial assistance.
Usha emphasized that the IOA will cover all expenses related to the insurance and pension schemes from its own resources. She expressed the need to recognize and support the contributions of India’s former Olympians.
“The IOA is taking many athlete-centric steps, and one of these is medical insurance and pension for all our ex-Olympians,” Usha told PTI while felicitating legendary Indian athlete Gurbachan Singh Randhawa on the occasion of International Olympic Day at his residence. “We have submitted the proposal to all EC members for all ex-Olympians. It is a small help from IOA for all ex-Olympians. We should remember all our ex-Olympians,” she added.
Legendary Indian athlete Gurbachan Singh Randhawa, who won a gold medal in decathlon in the 1962 Asian Games and participated in two Olympics, expressed appreciation for the IOA’s efforts, but requested further assistance for veteran Olympians. He suggested that the spouses of deceased athletes should also be eligible for a pension, and advocated for government funding for former athletes under the Central Government Health Scheme (CGHS).
The IOA’s decision to implement these schemes demonstrates a growing commitment to supporting athletes beyond their competitive careers. It recognizes the sacrifices and contributions of former Olympians and aims to ensure their well-being in their later years.
