In a dramatic turn of events, the Indian wrestling team’s participation in the World Championships has been cleared after 12 selected athletes staged a protest outside the residence of Sports Minister Mansukh Mandaviya, demanding their participation. This comes a day after the Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) withdrew the nation’s entries due to a legal challenge by wrestler Satyawart Kadian. The protest highlights the ongoing turmoil within the WFI and raises questions about the selection process and the federation’s handling of the situation.
Results for: Sports Ministry
The Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) has withdrawn Indian wrestlers from the upcoming World Championships in Tirana, Albania, citing government interference in its operations. The decision comes after a long-standing dispute between the WFI and the Sports Ministry, which has resulted in the de-recognition of the federation and the formation of an ad-hoc committee to run its affairs. The WFI alleges that the Ministry’s actions are compromising the federation’s autonomy and hindering its ability to function effectively.
Indian badminton doubles player Ashwini Ponnappa has expressed disappointment over the lack of individual financial support from the Sports Ministry during her preparation for the Paris Olympics. Despite receiving funds under the TOPS and ACTC programs, Ponnappa claims the assistance was insufficient and that her request for a coach was denied. She also disputed the amount of financial support reported by the Sports Authority of India (SAI), highlighting the need for more transparency and personalized support for athletes.
The Sports Ministry’s Mission Olympic Cell (MOC) has approved financial assistance for several Olympic-bound athletes, including badminton player HS Prannoy and shooter Rudrankksh Patil, to support their training and participation in the Paris Games.