BANGALORE, May 30: A gesture of solidarity in the form of US $ 10,000 from the International Olympic Committee (IOC) -- which also gave its patronage to the Fourth National Games -- was probably the kind of boost the Games organisers badly needed on the eve of the 10-day extravaganza. The gift cheque itself from the IOC would seem a drop in the ocean that has already seen expenditure in excess of Rs 120 crores.

Besides, the carefully-timed announcement did not do them much good on the public relations front as the powers-that-be stuttered and fumbled their way past a volley of embarrassing questions at the routine pre-event press conference today.

With so much flak trained at them, the Organising Committee did its best, first to give explanations, and then, to hide the seemingly numerous deficiencies. A small consolation, if any, for the organisers was the fact that IOC President, Juan Antonio Samaranch has given permission to hoist the IOC flag at the Games venue.

``This is the the first time this has been done,'' said Suresh Kalmadi, the IOA President, who was unconvincing in his defence of the timing of the Games. The formal opening ceremony is on Saturday and competitions get under way on Sunday.

Even as the focus is on the National Games, Kalmadi put a tentative foot forward -- which may well end up in his mouth -- as he announced plans to start a Winter National Games soon. He wanted Winter Games to become a part of the national mainstream.

Kalmadi, known for his ability to entice the corporate sector into sport, expressed gratitude towards the sponsors, Videocon and said, ``It is important to have the National Games because the focus then will be on Olympic disciplines.

``The start to the movement will be made in Bangalore. So Olympic sports must be given due weightage,'' said he. ``(Private) companies should adopt one discipline and train juniors in that event,'' he added.

Defending the amount of infrastructure that has come up for the Games, Kalmadi said it was part of long-term plan. At the same time, he said, ``Though at some venues we have not been able to fulfill obligations, it's better to build the stadia properly even if takes a little more time rather than hurry and have the whole thing coming apart,'' he said.

Kalmadi hailed the decision of Finance Minister P Chidambaram, who has agreed in principle to give tax relief on donations for infrastructure and conduct of sports events. On the larger issue of the national sports budget, Kalmadi said since the sports budget was stagnant at 70 crores, the private sector had to contribute liberally to espouse the cause of sport.

The IOA will award the Raja Bhalendra Singh Trophy to the best team at the National Games and the IOA Trophy for the best athlete. Besides, the sponsors will be giving out prizes for National records.

Copyright © 1997 Indian Express Newspapers (Bombay) Ltd.