Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday commended the Indian athletes who represented the nation at the Paris Olympics 2024 during a special interaction at his residence on Independence Day. The Prime Minister shared the highlights of his engagement with the athletes on social media, expressing the nation’s pride in their remarkable performances.
The Indian contingent, comprising 117 athletes competing across 16 sports, showcased their dedication and skill, earning a total of six medals, including one silver and five bronze. The Prime Minister particularly praised the Indian Men’s Hockey Team, double-bronze medalist shooter Manu Bhaker, and other standout performers such as Sarabjot Singh and Aman Sehrawat.
In a candid conversation with the athletes, Prime Minister Narendra Modi took the opportunity to learn about their experiences, including the challenges they faced, their favorite foods, and even their nicknames. The athletes revealed that they had abstained from using mobile phones throughout the event to maintain focus.
Acknowledging the government’s efforts in providing the necessary facilities for their training and preparation, the athletes expressed their gratitude. Prime Minister Narendra Modi noted with satisfaction that the number of injuries among the athletes had decreased, attributing this to their growing expertise and the improved support infrastructure.
During the meeting, the athletes presented the Prime Minister with several mementos, including a signed Indian Olympic jersey and a special hockey stick from the Indian Hockey Team. Manu Bhaker, who impressed with her exceptional marksmanship at the Paris Games, gifted Prime Minister Narendra Modi a specially designed air pistol. Wrestler Aman Sehrawat also contributed a signed jersey.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi took the occasion to urge the athletes to use their influence to promote sustainable development and organic farming. He also offered words of encouragement to wrestler Ritika Hooda, who expressed disappointment over her performance. He reassured her, emphasizing that she is still young and has a promising future ahead if she continues to practice diligently.
The meeting was attended by several prominent figures, including Sports Minister Mansukh Mandaviya and Indian Olympic Association President PT Usha. Tokyo Olympics medalists Lovlina Borgohain (boxing) and Saikhom Mirabai Chanu (weightlifting) were among the participants who met with the Prime Minister.
The Indian contingent’s overall performance saw them finishing 71st in the medal tally at the Paris Games. The silver medallist in javelin throw, Neeraj Chopra, who was notably absent from the meeting, is currently in Germany for medical consultations regarding a groin injury, with hopes of participating in the upcoming Diamond League Meetings in Europe.
This interaction highlighted not only the achievements of the Indian athletes but also the government’s ongoing commitment to supporting sports in India. The Prime Minister’s engagement with the athletes served as a morale boost, reinforcing the nation’s pride in their accomplishments on the global stage.
