Rathore, the 2004 Olympic silver medallist in shooting, said the need of the hour is that the National Sports Federations (NSFs) bring about transparency in their functioning.
"Corporate sector is eager to support sports but they should be given the assurance that their money is going in right hands. Transparency and accountability is the must, Rathore told PTI Bhasha in an interview.
When asked if it means that ministry is planning to cut off or reduce the grants given to NSFs, he replied in negative.
"I never said that. They can raise funds despite getting government grants. Both are not exclusive to each other. It's high time that they should take initiatives to raise money on their own. Sports like wrestling, hockey and badminton are generating money through various leagues but we are funding them, said the celebrated shooter.
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"Indian athletes carry the expectations of the whole nation. The prestige of the country is at stake when they enter field hence all the stake-holders should work together for the betterment of sports and sports-persons. I know them for many years and all are good friends. I am sure we will work together to make India sporting power, he said when asked about the relation between ministry and IOA.
He did not elaborate on the proposed changes in National Sports Development Code but indicated that the system is going in for a complete overhaul.
He also said that government does not want to interfere in the operational part but want professionalism in sports administration.
"We have successfully organised khelo India games in a short span. It's not like that that we can't run the sports in the country but we dont want to do that. We have our hands full .Whoever runs the sport be it professionals, NSFs or private partners , the approach should be professional, said Rathore.
Yeh to Samay hi bataega (only time will tell ).
As far as politics in sports federations is concerned, it should be away but finally sport is one of the soft power projections in the country and players are representative of a country, he said when asked about being a sportsperson himself, doesnt he think that sports should be kept away from politics .
It is for the experts who select teams for the games to comment on expected medal tally but we have not let any stone unturned as far as preparations are concerned. Now being a sportsman also I want them to give their best keeping the training in mind. Players and officials should also know that discipline and fairplay is paramount as they are the ambassadors of the country , said the minister.
He admits the pressure of expectations is high on him but he is confident of making a change.