Jharkhand Olympic Association (JOA) is keen to work in tandem with Tata Steel sports wing in Jamshedpur to prepare athletes for the 2028 and 2032 Olympic Games. Both the parties have also planned to sign Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to give a direction to their initiative.

“The talks are in the initial stage, but the Tatas have given positive indications. We are keen to support Tata Steel in channelising the talents and prepare them for big-ticket competitions. It’s a long-term plan, but talks with Tatas have been positive,” a JOA official said on condition of anonymity.

Earlier this week, JOA general secretary MK Pathak also spoke to Tata sports officials in this connection.

When contacted, Pathak said he held a meeting with Tata Steel sports wing chief Farzan Heerjee and other officials. “The discussion revolved around how to bring talents to the fore. We are keen to help out the Tatas in this direction. I have also suggested to revive the Tata Athletics Academy and set up a boxing cradle. Things are moving in a positive direction,” he said.

“The Tata athletics cradle is lying defunct for over a decade now. We will prepare a draft (of the MOU) and send it to Tata Steel sports wing. Officials will study it before seeking approval from the company management. It’s a long process, but things should take a positive shape in future,” Pathak, who is also a treasurer of Athletics Federation of India, said.

Pathak said they want to join hands with Tatas keeping in mind the 2028 and 2032 Olympic Games. “Athletics and boxing can bring us medals in the Olympics. I have also suggested Tatas to create facilities for shooters, who can also win medals,” he said.

Pathak, who is also the president of Jharkhand Athletics Association, said JOA would provide all necessary support to Tata Steel sports wing. “We can help to bring in foreign coaches by approaching the Indian Olympics Association and AFI. The selection process of athletes would be handled by the Tatas. Being the apex sports body of the state, we want to extend supports so that athletes can be prepared in a structured and professional manner,” Pathak said.

He said, “Tatas have all required facilities and infrastructure to prepare athletes for the Olympics. They have a rich history in sports, and JOA is very keen to extend its support. We are expecting positive results as more meetings will be held in this connection.”