NEW DELHI: The satraps helming many sports federations in the country will not take kindly to a bald truth highlighted by Indian Olympic Association president Narinder Batra – that is was the way federations were being run, rather than lack of support from the government, that was the biggest hurdle to the competitive performances of various sports on the international arena.
Speaking at Indian Express’ Idea Exchange program, Batra said: “It is more difficult to interact with federations than with governments as the latter are more supportive. I have had no problem with governments in the last two years. It’s difficult to convince the federations to change their habits and ways. If you have a blueprint [of the roadmap], there is nothing called ‘No fund’ from the government. Most of the top federations have everything in place. But the others need to now get into the system…”
Insisting that the IOA’s target was to take India’s medals tally to double figures at Tokyo 2020, Batra said he was focusing on sports that can give the desired results.
Batra noted: “As of now, about 61 athletes have qualified. A lot of competitions are yet to take place — badminton, tennis, boxing, wrestling, weightlifting. Even if we don’t qualify, there is a quota of two [athletes in every event]… The number [of qualifications] should be between 100 and 125.
“[As far as medals are concerned], we want to hit double digits. It’s a tough ask but I am trying to focus on events from where the results can come from.”
The IOA president also pointed out that in India a good sports system can be run only if the Prime Minister or the Chief Ministers are interested in promoting sports. “Our system is such that it is controlled either by the Prime Minister or the Chief Ministers. If the CM has interest, things will be done. I am from Srinagar. [Former CM] Farooq Abdullah was very interested in sports. So that culture matters.”
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