Government Scholarship · Graduation (UG), Post-Graduation (PG), Professional Courses

Target Olympic Podium Scheme (TOPS)

Q: How do I apply directly to the TOPS scheme?

There is no general direct online application form. Athletes are monitored and selected proactively by the Mission Olympic Cell (MOC) based on national/international performances.

Q: What is the difference between Core and Development groups?

Core Group consists of immediate medal contenders for the upcoming Olympics (receiving ₹50,000/month OPA). Development Group consists of long-term prospects for future Olympic cycles (receiving ₹25,000/month OPA).

Q: Does the scheme pay for training abroad?

Yes, the TOPS scheme covers 100% of foreign training, coaching fees, kit, and travel expenses under approved customized plans, plus a daily USD 25 out-of-pocket allowance while abroad.

Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports, Government of India · All India

Annual Award₹6.0 Lakh+

Deadline31 Dec

Scheme Name	Target Olympic Podium Scheme (TOPS)
Provided By	Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports, Government of India
Eligibility Summary	Class 11-12, Graduation, Engineering (< ₹8L Income)

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About the Program

The Target Olympic Podium Scheme (TOPS) provides elite Indian athletes with up to ₹50,000 per month in out-of-pocket allowances along with fully funded international coaching to win Olympic medals.

Benefits & Financial Support

₹6.0 Lakh+

Out-of-Pocket Allowance (OPA) of ₹50,000 per month for Core Group athletes and ₹25,000 per month for Development Group athletes, plus full coverage of customized training plans.

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Monthly stipend of ₹50,000 (Core) or ₹25,000 (Development)
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Fully funds international coaching, foreign training camps, sports science support, sports gear, and travel for Olympic selection trials.

Eligibility Criteria & Income Limit

Education Level	Graduation (UG), Post-Graduation (PG), Professional Courses
Course / Stream	Relevant courses
Income Limit	No income bar
Category / Caste	General, OBC, SC, ST, EWS, All, Sports
Domicile State	All India

Mandatory Documents Checklist

✓Aadhaar Card
✓NSRS Registration Details
✓International/National Tournament Result Sheets
✓Ranking Certificates from National Sports Federations (NSFs)
✓Physiological & Fitness Audit Profiles

Selection Process

Mission Olympic Cell (MOC) selects athletes based on physiological assessment, international rankings, performance consistency, and expert recommendations from coaches/federations.

Renewal Policy

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Quarterly review conducted by the Mission Olympic Cell
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Continuation depends on maintaining elite fitness levels, sports rankings, and coach compliance.

How to Apply Online

Applications are submitted online via Online. Complete eKYC, upload scanned documents, and submit before the closing date.

1
Register profile on the National Sports Repository System (NSRS).
2
Represent India or secure top ranks at National/International Federation matches.
3
The Mission Olympic Cell (MOC) scouts and shortlists athletes based on international medal-winning potential.
4
Complete sports science assessment and physiological profiling.
5
Upon final approval, receive the TOPS induction letter and monthly OPA credit.

Common Questions (FAQs)

How do I apply directly to the TOPS scheme?

There is no general direct online application form. Athletes are monitored and selected proactively by the Mission Olympic Cell (MOC) based on national/international performances.

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IndiaScholarships.in attempts to provide accurate information manually curated from official sources. Scholarship details, timelines, and eligibility can change without notice as per the provider's discretion. Applying for a scholarship does not guarantee selection. Always verify all information on the official Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports, Government of India website before final submission.