Currently serving her second term as an administrator, Anju noted that the country’s consistent success at the world level provides a solid foundation for her expectations. During a recent virtual interaction, she identified a target of 30 to 32 medals as a realistic outcome for the Indian contingent, highlighting the depth and quality currently present across various track and field disciplines.
Focus on Long Jump Talent and Grassroots Development
A significant portion of Anju's confidence stems from the competitive environment fostered among India's elite long jumpers. She specifically highlighted the progress of
Anju emphasized that the healthy rivalry between Sojan and Singh is a major advantage for their development. Reflecting on her own career, where she often had to compete abroad to find suitable challenges, she noted that the current generation benefits from having high-quality domestic competitors who push each other to reach their peak performance levels. She stated that the federation expects medals from both athletes, noting that they are currently in excellent form.
The former gold medallist, who topped the podium at the 2002 Busan Games, attributed this rise in talent to the Athletics Federation of India's strategic emphasis on grassroots development. By nurturing young athletes and providing them with the necessary support to compete at international levels, the federation has created a sustainable pipeline of talent. This systematic approach, according to Anju, is the primary driver behind the country's improved standing in continental athletics.
