Indian Railways has made a deliberate and significant effort to provide financial security to sportspersons, particularly women. This commitment stems from a combination of factors, as Prem Chand Lochab, secretary of the Railway Sports Promotion Board (RSPB), explained to Sportstar.
Lochab noted that the working conditions within the Railways are highly favorable for women athletes, making it a top choice for many. They often secure postings closer to home and gain access to excellent facilities. Furthermore, once their active sports careers conclude, they can easily transition into other roles within the system.
Beyond being a good fit, Lochab emphasized that the Railways actively seeks to encourage and employ women, stating, “The probability of women getting medals is higher. If they are provided with better support and ecosystem, we believe they can achieve big results quicker than men.”
The Railways holds a near-monopoly in women’s sports like hockey, cricket, and basketball. However, Lochab acknowledged that jobs alone aren’t sufficient, and there’s a significant push to enhance sports infrastructure. He detailed upcoming projects, including a state-of-the-art residential wrestling academy in Kishanganj, Delhi, costing approximately 35 crores, which will accommodate over 100 male and female trainees and is expected to be operational soon. Modern facilities are also available in Behala, Kapurthala, Patiala, Rai Bareli, and Chennai, with a new one planned for Jaipur.
Regarding funding, Lochab elaborated on the unique Sports Development Fund. He explained that a specific amount from every sanctioned project is earmarked for sports development, and these funds are then used to continually improve and enhance their facilities.
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