SunstarTV Bureau: India became the highest contributor among the other world governments by pledging to donate Rs 73,798,306.59 to the World Anti-Doping Agency’s scientific research budget.
India’s donation comes at a time when the country’s anti-doping programme has been adversely affected by suspension of its suspended National Dope Testing Laboratory, which is to be inspected by WADA early next year.
This funding will allow WADA to develop innovative anti-doping testing and detection methods. The money will also be used to further strengthen WADA’s independent Investigations and Intelligence Department.
According to Sports Ministry, Kiren Rijiju, “India’s contribution is the highest among contributions made by other world governments, including China, Saudi Arabia and Egypt.”
Sports Minister wrote to WADA President Witold Banka, stated, “I am happy to share with you that the Government of India is pledging a ‘one-off’ financial support of Rs 73,798,306.59 to this WADA Fund for scientific R&D and (I&I) with the hope that this contribution from India will boost the efforts to achieve the target of USD 10 million for this fund.”
WADA chief Witold Banka, mentioned, “This is a massive boost for WADA and for Clean sport. The agency is grateful to the Government of China, Egypt, India and Saudi Arabia for supporting the protection of sport in this way.”
