(a) whether India has spent a lot of money on long-time coaching and international trips to develop Indian boxing;
(b) if so, whether despite this huge expenditure, Indian boxing fared badly in the Asian Games in Busan;
(c) if so, the reasons therefor; and
(d) the steps being taken to improve the Indian boxing?
THE MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF YOUTH AFFAIRS & SPORTS (SHRI PON. RADHAKIRISHNAN)
(a) During the last 2 Financial years 2001 & 2002 (till October, 2002) an amount of Rs.19 lakhs (approximately) has been spent on National Coaching Camps and Rs.1,45,00,000/- (approximately) on participation of Indian teams in International Boxing Tournaments.
(b) Preparation for Busan Asian Games, 2002 & Manchester Commonwealth Games, 2002 had started, simultaneously, in January, 2001 and the Indian boxers performed very well in 2002 Commonwealth Games by winning 3 medals (1 Gold +1Silver +1 Bronze). In the Busan Asian Games 9 Indian boxers had participated, five out of whom, reached the Quarter-finals, though none of them could advance further.
(c) Performance of the Indian Boxers at the Busan Asian Games is being analysed by experts.
(d) In order to improve the standard of Indian Boxing, Indian Amateur Boxing Federation has to prepare a Long Term Development Plan in consultation with former international boxers, coaches and sports scientists.