The Indian contingent's trip to the Paris Olympics is set to cost a staggering INR 33.68 crore, more than double the expenses incurred during the 2021 Tokyo Games, according to a report published in The Times Of India. (More Sports News).
The Indian Olympic Association (IOA) has planned a detailed budget of around INR 33 crore for travel, accommodation, equipment, and logistics for athletes, support staff, and delegates for the Paris Games.
On the other hand, the government's expenditure for Tokyo amounted to INR 13.13 crore.
The budget has been prepared with India's contingent size in mind, consisting of 195 members. A total of INR 14 crore has been set aside for athlete-related activities, including rewards for medal-winning sportspersons and teams.
According to the TOI report, The sports ministry will shoulder a significant portion of the total budget, amounting to INR12 crore. Airfare for 195 individuals alone will cost INR 3.41 crore, with an additional INR 2.04 crore allocated for out-of-pocket allowances based on USD 50 per day for 25 days for each individual.
A substantial sum of INR18.90 crore will be allocated for delegates, IOA's executive committee (EC) members, and headquarters officials.
Notably, the travel and daily allowance (TA/DA) for EC members alone will amount to INR 8.4 crore. The IOA's 12-member EC includes President PT Usha, Senior Vice-President Ajay H Patel, Treasurer Sahdev Yadav, and others.
Following the budget reveal, an EC member, demanded an urgent meeting through a written letter. He emphasized the need for financial approval and finalizing the budget estimates.
Meanwhile, the Indian Olympic Association (IOA) plans to offer financial support to the athletes and support staff. Athletes will receive INR 2 lakh each, while coaching and support staff will get INR 1 lakh each.
