Why India Struggles in International Sports: Political Interference and Lack of Exposure

India, a nation of over one billion people, is often criticized for its weak performance in international sports. This article delves into the various factors behind India's struggles, including political interference in sports and a lack of exposure to top-level competition.

Wrestling and Political Controversy

The recent controversy surrounding Indian wrestlers highlights the political chaos in the sports landscape of India. Wrestlers on a Dharna (Protest) are demanding accountability from the Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) and have accused its president of misconduct. This case is sub judice(a legal term meaning it is pending before a court of law), drawing attention from the media and the Supreme Court of India. Politicians have also weighed in, with the accused accused of nepotism involving specific castes and regions. This political drama has overshadowed the sporting achievements of Indian athletes, adding another layer of complexity to their challenges.

Political Influence in Sports

Sports in India are increasingly becoming a political battleground. The example of Rajiv Gandhi's name being removed from the Khel Ratan Award by Prime Minister Narendra Modi serves as a stark reminder of how politics can hinder the recognition of sporting achievements. This infusion of political influence has made it difficult for athletes to focus on their craft, often leading to suboptimal performance on the international stage.

Lack of Exposure to Top-Level Competition

According to Anju Bobby George, a former Olympic athlete, India's poor performance in the 2020 Tokyo Olympics can largely be attributed to the lack of exposure to top-level competitions. George emphasized that Indian athletes, especially in athletics and track and field events, have missed out on the opportunity to compete at the highest levels. This isolation from global competitions has severely limited their preparation and competitive edge.

Impact on Athletes' Performance

George pointed out that while there is significant media and public interest in the Indian athletics contingent, there is a crucial gap in terms of exposure to top-level competitions. Athletes like Anju Bobby George gained immense experience by competing globally, which has helped them achieve their best results. However, many Indian athletes do not have access to similar opportunities, leading to underperformance in international events.

Struggles and Pressures

Despite the pressure to perform well, Indian athletes consistently face challenges. The 2020 Tokyo Olympics were a case in point. Anju Bobby George highlighted that lack of exposure to competition has been a persistent issue for Indian athletes. She mentioned that while several athletes are considered potential medal contenders, many have failed to live up to expectations. The weight of expectations, combined with the lack of competitive experience, poses a significant challenge for Indian athletes.

Conclusion

India's struggles in international sports are complex and multifaceted. Political interference and a lack of exposure to top-level competitions significantly contribute to the underperformance of Indian athletes. To improve, it is crucial to address these issues and create an environment where athletes can thrive without political distractions. Only then can India hope to compete on a global stage and achieve lasting success in sports.