Neeraj Chopra and Manu Bhaker Set for International Training Camps Ahead of Major Competitions

Training Camps Approved for Indian Athletes

New Delhi [India] - On May 13, the Mission Olympic Cell (MOC) convened for its 173rd meeting and granted approval for two-time Olympic medalist Neeraj Chopra to undertake a 47-day off-season training camp in Switzerland, as the Commonwealth Games and Asian Games approach.

In addition, the MOC, in collaboration with the Ministry of Youth Affairs & Sports, sanctioned foreign training for renowned pistol shooter Manu Bhaker in Lucca, Italy.

As per a press release, Bhaker, a core athlete under the Target Olympic Podium Scheme (TOPS), is currently recovering from a back injury in Turkey. She will train at the Olympic Training Centre in Bienne from May 25 to July 10, gearing up for the upcoming multi-sport events, according to the Sports Authority of India (SAI).

The Commonwealth Games are set to take place in Glasgow, Scotland, from July 23 to August 2, while the Asian Games will occur in Aichi-Nagoya, Japan, from September 19 to October 4.

Neeraj aims to continue his impressive performance in these competitions, having previously secured gold at the 2018 Commonwealth Games and consecutive gold medals at the 2018 and 2022 Asian Games. The 28-year-old athlete from Haryana will be joined by his long-time physiotherapist, Ishaan Marwaha, and coach Jai Choudhary.

The approved proposal includes coverage for travel and accommodation expenses for the three-member team, which encompasses airfare, lodging, meals, visa fees, extra baggage for javelins, medical insurance, and a daily allowance of USD 25 for 47 days.

Chaired by Hari Ranjan Rao, Secretary (Sports) of the Ministry of Youth Affairs & Sports, the MOC also approved Manu Bhaker's foreign training in Italy from May 13 to 22. The 24-year-old will be accompanied by her coach, Jaspal Rana, and physiotherapist, Snehil Khurana. This proposal also covers travel and accommodation costs, along with range fees.

Manu, a double Olympic medalist, is set to compete in the women's 10m air pistol and 25m pistol events at the 2026 Asian Games, where she is considered a strong medal contender.

Furthermore, the MOC has approved long-distance runner Gulveer Singh's request for foreign training and competition exposure in the United States from May 15 to June 17 (34 days), along with his coach. Gulveer, who won a bronze medal at the 2022 Hangzhou Asian Games and gold in the 5000m and 10,000m races at the Asian Championships, will participate in prestigious races in Los Angeles and Nashville.