IRAQ-Sand in US Eyes

It is a thought that recalls the demoniac efforts of a Nazi Germany and an East Germany but is true even of a USSR or a post-war Japan or the US. It would not therefore be surprising that the recent Indian triumph in the Asian Gaines and the subsequent enthusiasm of the BJP-led government to push forward a new sports policy and set up a sports development fund should send a shiver down the spines of experienced observers. It would perhaps need a more open mindset to recognise the real issues here, For one, whatever be the narrow political objectives in striving to produce champions, it is a well-established fact that the base of sporting talent has to be expanded if champions are to be created. This requires a determined policy which directs attention to encouraging physical education and sports at the school level; ergo, not only will schools have to be better equipped but they have to draw more children and also, eventually, ensure that they are fit and healthy. The current success which indicates a better spread of talent unlike yesteryears, India had more than one participant in many track and field events may not be an outcome of any particular policy of the government. But if indeed there were such a policy that made for this in the coming years, would that be so bad?