New Delhi [India], August 2 (ANI): A Member of Parliament from Punjab, Vikramjit Singh Sahney voiced his concerns over significant disparities in the allocation of funds under the Khelo India Scheme and highlighted the challenges faced by states like Punjab in nurturing athletic talent due to disproportionate funding.

In a recent session of the Rajya Sabha, Sahney pointed out that Punjab has made substantial contributions to India's sporting landscape, with 19 athletes among the national contingent of 117, accounting for 16 per cent of the country's Olympic participants.

Despite this, the state received only Rs 78 crore under the Khelo India Scheme, which constitutes a mere 3.5 per cent of the total funding allocated.

In stark contrast, Sahney noted that other states, which have contributed only two athletes to the Paris Olympics, received a much higher allocation of Rs 438 crore. This discrepancy, according to Sahney, is alarming and could impede the development and future success of athletes from Punjab.

Speaking in the House, Deputy Chairman Harivansh said that Vikramjit Singh Sahney demands the allocation of funds under the Khelo India Scheme in proportion to the players' participation in international tournaments from the respective states.

Voicing his concern, Sahney said, "I would first like to congratulate Sarabjot Singh and Manu Bhaker for bringing laurels to the country by winning medals in shooting for India in the Paris Olympics 2024. I would like to bring to your kind attention a matter of significant concern regarding the judicious allocation of funds under the Khelo India Scheme.""As we celebrate the achievements and potentials of our athletes on the global stage, it is crucial to address the disparities that could undermine our efforts in nurturing and promoting sports excellence," he said.

Adding further, he said, "In the ongoing Paris Olympics, states like Punjab have demonstrated remarkable commitment. Out of the 117 national contingents that are sent to Paris, Punjab has contributed 19 athletes and Haryana has contributed 24, which represents 20 per cent each of our Olympic participants.""This achievement underscores these states' dedication to sports and its capacity to produce top-tier talent. However, you (Chair) will be astonished to note that there is a concerning imbalance when we examine the allocation of funds under the Khelo India Scheme," he said.

"Punjab has only been allocated 78 crore, which is 3.5 per cent of the allocation. Many states received over 400 crores, this is stark in contrast with the state that is sending 19-20 athletes as compared to the other states that have been sending less number of athletes to the contingent," he added.

"It is a matter of concern that such imbalances in funding could hinder the development and future success of athletes from states like Punjab," Sahney stated.

He emphasised the importance of providing adequate financial support to sports initiatives, particularly in regions where youth engagement in sports could serve as a crucial deterrent against social issues like drug abuse.

"The youth are our demographic dividend. They should be engaged in pursuits like sports rather than falling prey to vices such as drugs. Only then can we achieve inclusive human development," Sahney added, urging the government to rectify the disparities in funding to ensure a more equitable distribution of resources under the Khelo India Scheme. (ANI)