Sportspersons facing problems related to training, diet: Mary Kom

Five-time world boxing champion and nominated member of the Rajya Sabha Mary Kom on Tuesday said sportspersons in the country are facing problems related to diet and training.

"We are facing a lot of difficulties, like training facility and also diet," Kom said in the Rajya Sabha.

She said diet chart for sportspersons was given only when they enter major competitions and not during training.

The MP also conveyed her best wishes to the Indian contingent that has gone to compete in the Rio Olympics.

Sports Minister Vijay Goel, responding to Kom's observation, sought details of any particular case where sportspersons were not being provided proper diet.

"The contingent going this time has been given customised training. They have been given the best diet, where needed international coaches have been called," Goel said.

"We have spent between Rs 30 lakh and Rs 1 crore on a single player," Goel said.

He added that there were concerns from all sides for more funds, which can only come from three sources -- the Finance Ministry, CSR (Corporate Social Responsibility), and contribution to the National Sports Fund.

--IANS

ao/sam/dg