Indian boxing received a timely boost on the road to the next Olympic cycle as a new wave of performers earned elevation into the elite training system, reflecting both recent success and long-term promise. Four standout names from the Asian circuit have now been fast-tracked into the core group of the Target Olympic Podium Scheme, a move that signals growing confidence in India’s boxing depth ahead of major multi-sport events.
The inclusion of Preeti Pawar, Priya, Arundhati Chaudhary, and Sachin Siwach into the TOPS core group follows their impressive outings at the Asian Boxing Championships. Pawar, Priya, and Chaudhary returned with gold medals, while Siwach secured a silver, performances that did not go unnoticed by the Mission Olympic Cell during its 172nd meeting. The review focused on athlete progression within the TOPS framework, with an emphasis on consistency, medal potential, and readiness for global competition.
Preeti Pawar’s rise has been particularly noteworthy. Emerging from a strong grassroots system, she has steadily built her reputation as one of India’s most dependable boxers in her weight category. Known for her aggressive approach and tactical awareness, Pawar has delivered under pressure at continental events. Her qualification for both the Commonwealth Games in Glasgow and the Asian Games in Japan later this year marks a significant milestone in her career. Having already proved her mettle at the Asian Championships, she now carries expectations of translating that form onto larger stages.
Priya’s journey reflects resilience and discipline. Coming through domestic circuits with consistent podium finishes, she has developed into a technically sound boxer capable of adapting mid-bout. Her gold medal at the Asian Championships reinforced her status as a rising contender in Indian boxing.
Alongside her, Arundhati Chaudhary has carved a path defined by determination. Her ability to maintain composure in high-intensity bouts has been central to her success. The Asian title adds to her growing list of achievements and strengthens her case as a strong medal prospect for India in upcoming international events.
Sachin Siwach, the lone silver medallist among the four, has also been rewarded for his consistency. A boxer with a solid amateur pedigree, Siwach has represented India across multiple international tournaments, gaining valuable experience against top-tier opponents.
The quartet will be joined by Jaismine in India’s campaign at the Commonwealth Games, while Pawar, Priya, and Siwach have also secured qualification for the Asian Games based on criteria set by the Boxing Federation of India. Their inclusion highlights a broader shift towards rewarding current form and ensuring that athletes peaking at the right time receive maximum support.
Beyond the core group, the Mission Olympic Cell has also identified emerging talent for the development pathway. Aditya in the 65kg category, Deepak in 70kg, and Harsh in 90kg have been added to the TOPS Development group following their performances in Ulaanbaatar. While Aditya and Deepak reached the quarterfinals, Harsh secured a bronze medal, underlining his potential at the continental level.
Additionally, Narender in the +90kg division has been placed in the Target Asian Games Group, ensuring structured support leading up to the 2026 Asian Games. At 31, Narender brings experience to the setup, having also clinched a bronze medal at the Asian Championships.
This multi-tiered approach reflects India’s evolving high-performance strategy in boxing. By strengthening both elite and developmental pipelines, the system aims to create sustained success rather than isolated achievements. With major events approaching, the elevation of these athletes into TOPS not only rewards recent performances but also sets the stage for India’s next push on the international boxing scene.
