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Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday hailed the performance of the Indian athletes at the Asian Games in Hangzhou, China, adding that their exploits have filled fellow countrymen with pride and boundless joy.
Addressing the prize distribution ceremony of the 'Sansad Sports Competition', which was held in Amethi, Uttar Pradesh, via video conferencing, Prime Minister Modi said the month of October is auspicious for sports in the country as the athletes, through their rousing and historic performances in the Hangzhou Games, has set the tone for more sporting achievements. Underling India's medal haul, in excess of 100, at the Asian Games, PM Modi said many aspiring athletes showcased their skills and talent at the Amethi Sansad Khel Pratiyogita and could go on to win laurels for the country in the coming days. He said the sporting achievements of the Indian athletes have infused fellow countrymen with renewed enthusiasm and vigour. "The experience you have gained in the last 25 days is a great asset for your sporting career," Prime Minister Modi was quoted as saying in a PIB release. Noting that the participation of more than one lakh aspiring athletes is a major accomplishment by the organisers, PM Modi also underlined the contribution of parents and coaches to the success of the budding athletes. Also congratulating BJP MP from Amethi and Union Minister, Smriti Irani, whose personal involvement made this event a success, PM Modi said, "It is very important for the development of any society that sports and players get the opportunity to flourish." "When players enter the field, they have only one goal -- to make themselves and their team victorious." Underlining initiatives for encouraging sportspersons, including TOPS and Khelo India Games, he added that hundreds of athletes were being trained and coached in the country and abroad under the TOPS scheme and being provided with monetary assistance. He also informed that more than 3 thousand athletes were being given Rs 50,000 per month under the Khelo India Games, thereby helping them meet their training, dietary, and coaching requirements and procuring necessary equipment. (PTI)
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