About the Scheme
The Target Olympic Podium Scheme (TOPS) launced in 2014 is a flagship sports initiative of the Government of India, implemented under the Khelo India programme. The scheme aims to provide focused and need-based support to elite Indian athletes, particularly women athletes, who have the potential to win medals at major international sporting events such as the Olympics, Paralympics, Asian Games, and Commonwealth Games.
TOPS offers comprehensive assistance including financial support, international coaching, advanced training facilities, sports science services, medical care, nutrition, and international exposure.
Objectives of the Scheme
- To identify and support elite women athletes with high medal potential
- To provide world-class training and infrastructure support
- To reduce financial barriers for women athletes
- To enhance India’s performance at international sporting events
- To promote gender equality and excellence in sports
Eligibility Criteria
- Athletes must be Indian citizens
- Selection is based on performance, rankings, and medal prospects at national and international levels
- Women athletes competing in Olympic, Paralympic, Asian Games, and Commonwealth Games disciplines are eligible
- Athletes are selected by a high-level expert committee
- Both senior and junior elite women athletes with proven potential may be included
How a Newcomer Can Avail the TOPS Scheme (Step-by-Step)
Although TOPS is meant for elite athletes, a newcomer can reach the scheme by following a structured sports pathway:
Step-by-Step Process
- Begin at the Grassroots Level
Start by participating in sports at the school, college, district, or state level. Join recognised academies or train under certified coaches to build skills and discipline. - Participate in Khelo India & National Events
Take part in Khelo India Youth Games, University Games, State Championships, and National Championships. These platforms help identify promising women athletes. - Register with the National Sports Federation (NSF)
Every athlete must be registered with the National Sports Federation of her sport. NSFs monitor performance and recommend athletes for higher-level schemes. - Achieve Consistent Performance
Focus on consistent results, rankings, and improvement at national and international competitions. Performance is the key factor for selection. - Get Recommended by Authorities
There is no direct application for TOPS. Women athletes are recommended by coaches, NSFs, or expert committees based on merit. - Selection by Mission Olympic Cell (MOC)
The Mission Olympic Cell, under the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports, reviews recommendations and selects athletes with strong medal potential. - Avail TOPS Support
Once selected, athletes receive financial assistance, international coaching, medical support, nutrition guidance, sports science services, and competition exposure.
SUCCESS BOX
The Target Olympic Podium Scheme (TOPS) has played a crucial role in India’s international sporting success by providing focused, elite-level support to women athletes.
- Saikhom Mirabai Chanu (Weightlifting)
Supported under TOPS with specialised coaching, nutrition, and international exposure, Mirabai Chanu won a silver medal at the Tokyo Olympics, becoming a symbol of strength and determination for Indian women. - P. V. Sindhu (Badminton)
As a_attaché TOPS athlete, P. V. Sindhu received world-class training and sports science support. She made history by winning two Olympic medals and multiple World Championship titles, establishing India as a global badminton force. - Lovlina Borgohain (Boxing)
TOPS support helped Lovlina access elite training and international competition experience. She won a bronze medal at the Tokyo Olympics, marking a milestone for Indian women’s boxing. - Aditi Ashok (Golf)
With assistance under TOPS, Aditi Ashok delivered a remarkable performance at the Tokyo Olympics, narrowly missing a medal and bringing unprecedented attention to women’s golf in India.