New Delhi, Nov 30: The Indian Olympic Association (IOA) will conduct in coming months a special seminar in coordination with the National Anti-Doping Agency (NADA) for its core group of athletes to educate them on the anti-doping rules to avoid any violation ahead of next year’s Olympic Games.

“We want to educate the athletes bound for the Olympic Games on the anti-doping rule violations to ensure proper compliance during the games,” IOA President Dr. P.T Usha said. “The IOA has put in place strict anti-doping measures to uphold the integrity of the sports”, the 52-year-old was quoted as saying in a release on Thursday.

On being asked how the IOA supports the athletes to prepare for the games, she said, “It is important to have good training facilities during the games and a smooth transport system from in the pre-competition time as well as during the main games. “IOA will also ensure athletes have adequate sports science backup to avoid injuries and stay healthy,” she added.

The IOA president was hopeful that all National Sports Federations (NSFs) have a proper road map in place for the Olympic Games. “Proper planning is important to ensure all aspects of the preparation are taken care of during the buildup months to the Olympic Games.

“All the NSFs must have prepared a detailed programme for the international exposure cum competition plan for next year,” she added.

Earlier in October this year during the International Olympic (IOC) session in Mumbai, Usha had also discussed the possibility of India hosting the Olympics in the future with IOC chief Thomas Bach. “It was a good and healthy discussion on various issues related to India’s bid to host the Youth Olympic in 2030 and 2036 Olympic Games as announced by the Hon’ble Prime Minister of India,” she said.

Usha termed it as a positive step that several private companies and state governments are investing in sports, which will boost sports development in the country. “More investment in sports will ensure good infrastructure and facilities across India. It will lead to a rise in the number of sports enthusiasts and inculcate sports culture in the country,” she added.

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She also pointed out that the Khelo India project of the Sports Ministry has proved to be a good platform for budding athletes to showcase their talent. “The financial assistance under the Khelo India scheme is a big support to promising athletes,” Usha added. (IANS)

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