(a) whether the Government has finalised squads for participation in Athens Olympics, 2004;
(b) if so, the details of the event in which Indian squads will participate;
(c) the number of officials who will accompany the participants, event-wise;
(d) the criteria for selection of such officials; and
(e) the details of estimated expenditure to be incurred thereon?
THE MINISTER OF YOUTH AFFAIRS AND SPORTS (SHRI SUNIL DUTT)
(a) & (b) : No, Sir. The Indian contingent for participation in Athens Olympics, 2004 is yet to be finalised. However, based on pre-qualification tournaments/ competitions, as on 30.6.2004, 65 Indian sportspersons have qualified to participate in the AthensOlympics in events such as archery, athletics, badminton, boxing, hockey (M), judo, rowing, shooting, swimming, table tennis, tennis, wrestling and weightlifting.
(c) & (d) The criterion for ratio of officials to players is laid down by the International Olympic Committee. The exact number of officials accompanying the sportspersons, event-wise, will be known after qualifying competitions in all the disciplines are over. Indian Olympic Association has intimated that the 65 athletes, selected so far for the Olympic Games shall be accompanied by twenty five officials.
(e) The estimates on expenditure will be firmed up on receipt of a formal proposal from the Indian Olympic Association indicating the total number of sportspersons and officials.