In a big step to boost Indian hockey, the Sports Ministry has approved a fresh monthly allowance of ₹25,000 for national-level hockey players under the Target Olympic Podium Scheme (TOPS). This is the first time hockey players will receive this extra financial aid to support their training and performance needs.
The decision was made during the 156th meeting of the Mission Olympic Cell (MOC) held recently. A total of 80 players (40 men and 40 women) will now get this benefit as an “Out of Pocket Allowance (OPA).” These players belong to the senior core group, including both senior and junior athletes who regularly participate in national camps.
Aim Is to Push Indian Hockey Towards Podium Wins
Speaking to the media, Sports Minister Mansukh Mandaviya said, “We aim to support every athlete working hard for India. This allowance will help hockey players focus more on performance and bring medals for the country.”
He further added that the request came from Hockey India, and the ministry took prompt action to make it possible. The allowance is expected to motivate players ahead of major global events like the Olympics, World Cup, and Asian Games.
How This Allowance Works
Under the current TOPS structure:
- Elite Core Group athletes receive ₹50,000 monthly.
- Development Group athletes receive ₹25,000 monthly.
- Players under the Target Asian Games Group (TAGG) also get ₹50,000 per month.
With this new change, 80 identified hockey players will receive an additional ₹25,000 every month. Hockey India will share an updated list with the Sports Authority of India (SAI) regularly, which will allow flexibility and scope for changes.
This list will mostly include players from the senior core group who are part of the national camps and are expected to represent India in major international competitions.
Hockey India Welcomes the Decision
Dilip Tirkey, President of Hockey India, thanked the government and said, “This decision will surely lift the confidence of our athletes. With major tournaments ahead, this support will help our players stay motivated and focused.”
He also pointed out that the performance of Indian hockey has improved a lot in recent years. The men’s team won bronze at the Tokyo Olympics 2020, ending a 41-year medal drought, while the women’s team finished fourth, their best-ever Olympic finish.
In the Asian Games, the Indian men’s team won gold, showing steady progress on the international stage.
More Support Likely in Future
Hockey players already receive salaries from their respective employers. Now, with government support through TOPS, the plan is to give more structured financial aid. Hockey India has also been exploring a contract system similar to Indian cricket, along with performance-based incentives for medal-winning efforts.
This move is seen as a strong message that the Indian government wants to push hockey back to its golden days, with players getting the recognition and support they deserve.
Disclaimer: This article is based on publicly shared reports. Information is subject to official updates and statements.
Sources: Prabhasakshi, PTI
