There was a mention about team India during the budget in Lok Sabha. Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman hailed Team India’s inspiring success in Australia. “India is a country that loves cricket so much. I am reminded on this occasion of the experience we had after the recent historic victory over Australia. That victory inspired not only the people but especially the youth. It is an example of how to move forward in difficult situations. It brought aspirations of doing the best and win after a defeat,” said Sitharaman.
The 2021–22 annual budget introduced by the central government has given the sports sector a raw deal. Despite the increased emphasis on sports in the budget over the past few years, there has been a lack of consistency in allocations. Last year (2020–21) the Centre, which has allocated Rs 890 crore for India Games, has slashed funding to the Sports Authority of India (SAI) and the National Sports Federation (NSF). In 2019, Rs 615 Crore was given compared to Rs 500 Crore, a huge cut for sports federations (reduction from Rs 245 Crore to Rs 55 Crore). No priority was given to sports in this budget, which was designed to streamline the economy, which had been hit hard by the Corona effect.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi has praised Team India as part of the Mann Ki Baat. He lauded the talent of the Indian team in recording a historic victory in Gabba. “Cricket has given us good news this month. Despite the ups and downs of the Indian team on Aussie soil, in the beginning, it was only at the end of the Test series that they achieved a historic victory. Our team effort and collective struggle are inspiring to all,” said the PM.
