From Borrowed Sleds to Olympic Dreams: Shiva Keshavan's Fight for Winter Sports in India
Source: news.source.channelnewsasia
Shiva Keshavan, a pioneering Indian luger, expresses frustration over the lack of progress in winter sports in India despite his 27 years of participation in the Winter Olympics. Starting with borrowed equipment, Keshavan highlights the systemic issues, including the absence of proper infrastructure and recognition for winter sports. Despite India's interest in hosting the 2036 Summer Olympics, winter sports remain underdeveloped, with hopes pinned on a new sports bill to change the status quo.
Key Points
Shiva Keshavan, a veteran Indian luger, feels that despite his long career, winter sports in India have not progressed significantly.
India lacks adequate infrastructure for winter sports, with only a few ski resorts and indoor ice rinks.
Winter sports federations in India do not receive National Sports Federation status, limiting their access to government funding.
Keshavan and other athletes often rely on borrowed equipment and crowdfunding to compete in the Winter Olympics.
There is hope that a new sports bill could improve the situation by granting recognition and funding to winter sports federations.
India's interest in hosting the 2036 Summer Olympics contrasts with the neglect of winter sports.
