New Delhi, 30 October (H.S.): Two-time Olympic medallist and world champion javelin thrower Neeraj Chopra is making a steady recovery from injury and is expected to resume training and rehabilitation over the next few weeks.

Speaking to the media team of the Sports Authority of India (SAI), Chopra said his condition had improved considerably and that he was preparing to gradually return to training under medical guidance.

My injury is much better now. I faced some difficulties during the initial month and a half, but there has been considerable improvement since then. I have consulted Dr. Dinshaw Pardiwala, who has advised me to resume training and begin an appropriate rehabilitation programme. I plan to start both over the next few weeks, Chopra said.

The two-time Olympic medallist also clarified that he had followed his doctors' advice and observed complete rest during the recovery period.

Considering the nature of my injury, the doctors had advised me to rest, and I followed their recommendations completely. As far as competitions are concerned, the Target Olympic Podium Scheme (TOPS) and the Sports Authority of India have been supporting me for several years. I have been part of the TOPS core group for a long time, and whenever I need any assistance, they have always stood by me, he said.

Chopra also welcomed the Union Cabinet's approval, on October 28, of the Khelo India Sports Equipment Manufacturing Scheme, describing it as a significant step forward for Indian sports.

This is an excellent initiative. Athletes often face considerable difficulties in purchasing certain specialised sports equipment in India and are sometimes compelled to import it from abroad. If such equipment is manufactured domestically under these schemes, it will become much easier for athletes to access it, he said.

Chopra also extended his best wishes to the Indian contingent preparing to participate in the upcoming Youth Olympic Games.

Best wishes to all the athletes heading to the Youth Olympic Games. Enjoy the experience and do not put yourself under excessive pressure or become nervous. The pressure you encounter there can actually be beneficial, as it offers valuable learning opportunities. Make the most of the occasion, observe other athletes and learn to turn pressure into your strength. I am confident that all of you will give your best performances, he said.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar