Everybody will get same amount of money," PM Modi said on Sunday, before flagging off 'Run for Rio', a promotional event in New Delhi to send off the Indian Olympics team to Rio.Not just a higher allowance, this time around, the Indian contingent will also get to eat 'desi' food if they so wish, the PM said. "Previously, the government officials sent along with the team of athletes used to get paid more than the athletes. Therefore, "this time, athletes were given the freedom to choose their own trainers ," he added.Each member of the Indian contingent has between Rs 30 lakh to Rs 1.5 crores spent on her, the PM said. And, the squad is being sent in advance of the Rio Olympics - that start August 5 - so that players become familiar with local conditions. The Centre will ensure that Indian athletes get Indian food according to their choice and requirement," the PM said.The PM gave a strong boost to the Indian Olympic contingent - at 119, the largest ever - and said that for these Games the government has spent as much as Rs 125 crore.

Source: Economic Times July 31, 2016 03:17 UTC