Who can apply for Target Olympic Podium Scheme (TOPS)?

Athletes selected for TOPS Core or Development groups; Selection based on performance and medal-potential review

What are the benefits of Target Olympic Podium Scheme (TOPS)?

Customized training and competition support; Equipment, coaching, sports science and allowance support as approved

Target Olympic Podium Scheme (TOPS) — Government Scheme

Researched — source pending· 1 Aug 2026

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Last updated: 1 Aug 2026· Source: Mission Olympic Cell, Sports Authority of India — Target Olympic Podium Scheme

◎ Researched — source document pending

This entry describes the scheme as run by Mission Olympic Cell, Sports Authority of India — Target Olympic Podium Scheme, but we have not yet been able to link a specific notification, G.O. or guidelines PDF for it. Treat the details below as indicative only, and confirm the current eligibility and amounts with the state sports department or on the official portal before applying.

Overview

High-performance support programme for medal prospects, including training, equipment, coaching, competition exposure and out-of-pocket allowance.

Key details

Age: No fixed age bar — Core Group is for medal-probable seniors, Development Group for junior/emerging athletes.
Amount / benefit value: Core Group athletes receive ₹50,000 per month out-of-pocket allowance plus fully funded customised training, foreign exposure, coach, sports science and equipment support. Development Group athletes receive ₹25,000 per month out-of-pocket allowance with training support.
Official website: https://sportsauthorityofindia.gov.in/sai/tops ↗

Eligibility

▸ Athletes selected for TOPS Core or Development groups
▸ Selection based on performance and medal-potential review

Benefits

✓ Customized training and competition support
✓ Equipment, coaching, sports science and allowance support as approved

Documents required

▪ Recent international performance record
▪ National federation recommendation
▪ Passport & Aadhaar
▪ Medical fitness certificate
▪ Bank details for TOPS out-of-pocket allowance

Application process

Selection is handled by the Mission Olympic Cell / SAI based on performance review.

Official link

https://sportsauthorityofindia.nic.in/ ↗

Application referrals

—visitors referred

Apply via: Selection is handled by the Mission Olympic Cell / SAI based on performance review.

Frequently asked questions

Can an athlete apply for TOPS directly?＋

No. Athletes are nominated by their National Sports Federation and selected by the Mission Olympic Cell (MOC) on the basis of international ranking and medal probability at the next Olympic/Paralympic Games.

What is the difference between Core and Development groups?＋

Core Group covers athletes assessed as medal prospects at the upcoming Olympics/Paralympics; the Development Group is a feeder pool of junior and emerging athletes with a longer runway.

Is TOPS funding separate from Khelo India?＋

Yes. Khelo India supports grassroots and elite development; TOPS is the top of the pyramid for Olympic/Paralympic medal prospects and is funded largely through the National Sports Development Fund.