Target Olympic Podium Scheme (TOPS)
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
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.
Inclusions
Monthly stipend of ₹50,000 (Core) or ₹25,000 (Development)
Fully funds international coaching, foreign training camps, sports science support, sports gear, and travel for Olympic selection trials.
Eligibility Criteria
Educational Qualification
Graduation (UG), Post-Graduation (PG), Professional Courses
Must be enrolled in relevant courses.
Financial & Category
Selection Process
Mission Olympic Cell (MOC) selects athletes based on physiological assessment, international rankings, performance consistency, and expert recommendations from coaches/federations.
Renewal Policy
Quarterly review conducted by the Mission Olympic Cell
Continuation depends on maintaining elite fitness levels, sports rankings, and coach compliance.
Application Process
- 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.
Documents Required
Important Dates
Application Deadline
31 December 2026
Scouting and review of active lists run quarterly/half-yearly by the Mission Olympic Cell (MOC).
Dates are subject to change as per the provider's official notification. Applicants are encouraged to apply well before the closing date.
Scholarship Quick Facts
Common Questions (FAQs)
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.
Help & Contact Support
Official Support
Need Application Help?
If you have trouble applying, you can check your eligibility or browse our step-by-step application guides.
Legal Disclaimer
IndiaScholarships.in attempts to provide accurate information manually curated from official sources. However, 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.
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