THE GOLD AND THE GLORY

It has been a week since the 2021 Olympics ended and the euphoria hasn’t yet worn off. Afterall, India bagged a gold among other medals and the hockey team made a commendable comeback. Our athletes weren’t even back home before the first hoardings made appearance:
‘Bajrang Punia face of Mobil India ‘Dangal Offer’ campaign’.
From a skyrocketing number of followers to lavish gift vouchers to class 1 posts in government offices, a medal in the Olympics is all it takes. And the luxury isn’t exclusive to Indian victors. A gold medalist in the U.S. receives a payment of $37500, and $737000 in Singapore, nearly 20 times more, among other forms of support in healthcare, education etc. 
It is unquestionable that the winners in the Olympics make their countries extremely proud and they do deserve an enthusiastic applause. But why is it that a show of praise is considered inadequate unless backed with extravagant bills? An overworked argument given in its favor is that it’s the only effective way to inspire more people to showcase their talent in sports. India has been dealing with the accusation of yielding a disproportionate number of sportspersons when viewed in comparison to its total population. Perhaps then it is indeed the best way to lure more people in.
However, to share some stats, the families of martyrs in India are paid a compensation of around Rs 1 crore only. Isn’t that disheartening now? Every year the Army recruits over 50,000 soldiers who do not hesitate before going to battlefield. Where do they get their inspiration from? Surely it isn’t from the money returns. 

If people lack the nationalist sentiment, then the government should realize that the nation isn’t providing them with enough incentives. Rewards are always welcome, but just a big fat cheque at the top of the ladder wouldn’t suffice if the ladder is broken. Heavy investments ought to be made in the sports industry. World class infrastructure, accomplished trainers and physicians, availability of good equipment, generous pay, promoting sports education programs etc., are some ways the intended target can be achieved. 

My personal beliefs lead me to conclude that the government shouldn’t have to use money as a bait to arouse feeling of patriotism in people. That isn’t a thing that can be bought.