I have been a sportsman for over 25 years. I represent Maharashtra State in Pistol Shooting. I have learnt a few things in all these years. Sports persons are held in contempt by officials, authority and any one else who does not play the game. At National Games, atheltes are crowded into second class train compartments while "officials" travel by air or AC class train. Sports persons live in abysmal conditions while officials live in 5 star hotels. The federations are led by people who never played the game and watch its decline. Subconsciously no one wants sports persons to excel for fear that they may be idolised by the country and pose a threat to the dictatorial whims of the federation presidents and committees. The Government is a silent spectator. In most administrations the post of Secretary Sports is considered unglamorous and almost akin to a punishment. Raj Khalid
