PV Sindhu, Sakshi Malik received only 1.66% of government's funds for Rio-bound athletes: Report

New Delhi: The Indian government spent Rs 36.85 crore on 117 Rio-bound athletes under the Target Olympic Podium Scheme (TOPS) launched last year, compared to UK, who spent Rs 5 crore on every athlete.

According to a report in The Indian Express, a data provided by the sports ministry shows that out of the total amount, only 1.66% converted into medals.

The report adds that around half the amount was spent on shooting, considering shooters have won several medals in the past at the Games. However, shooters failed to win any medal this year.

While Rs 2.94 crore was spent on the women’s relay squad, which ended up finishing seventh in their heats, Rs 7.80 crore was spent on athletics for 30 out of the 36 athletes who qualified for the Games.

The report also adds that only Rs 45.27 lakh was spent for PV Sindhu, who clinched a historic Silver medal while Rs 15.86 lakh was sanctioned for Sakshi Malik, who won the bronze in wrestling.

According to the report, in comparison, Great Britain spent $350 million on its 374 Rio-bound athletes. On the other hand, Australia spent $332 million in the period between the 2012 London and 2016 Rio Olympics.