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Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Monday felicitated sportspersons from the Armed Forces who won 27 medals, six Gold, 11 silver, and 10 Bronze, at the recently concluded Asian Games in Japan.
Union Minister for Consumer Affairs, Food and Public Distribution Pralhad Joshi also attended the event, organised to celebrate the Services best-ever performance at the prestigious international sporting event, as per a release from the Ministry of Defence. A total of 92 athletes from the three Services competed in 19 disciplines, making a significant contribution to Indias fourth-place finish. The Indian contingent secured 85 medals overall, comprising 21 Gold, 27 Silver and 37 Bronze. The Services athletes accounted for 32 per cent of Indias total medal tally and 28.57 per cent of its Gold medals. Among the standout performers was Naib Subedar Neeru Dhanda, who won two Gold medals and one Silver. She became the first Indian woman to win Gold in the individual womens Trap event at the Games. Naib Subedar Gulveer Singh claimed two Silver medals and one Bronze, becoming the first Indian male track-and-field athlete to win three individual medals at a single edition of the Asian Games. Havildar Sawan Barwal won Silver in the mens marathon with a national-record time of 2:11:37, ending Indias 44-year wait for a marathon medal at the Asian Games. Naib Subedar Sarvesh Kushare also secured a historic medal in the mens high jump, marking Indias first medal in the event at the Games in 56 years. Interacting with the sportspersons at an event in New Delhi, Singh attributed their success to discipline, hard work, team spirit and sporting excellence. He said the journey to winning a medal involves immense dedication, early-morning training, gym sessions, injuries, recovery and consistent efforts while balancing unit duties with sports preparations and staying away from families. Addressing the athletes who participated but could not win, Singh stressed that true defeat lies in giving up. He stated that every participant contributed to bringing honour to the country and the Defence Forces in one way or the other. Expressing confidence in the potential of Services athletes, he said that their achievements would continue to inspire future generations. Singh highlighted the pivotal role played by the Mission Olympic Wing in identifying talented athletes, nurturing their potential, providing scientific training and world-class sports facilities, and preparing them for international competitions. He also acknowledged the contribution of coaches, support staff, physiotherapists, nutritionists and the families of athletes, emphasising that a champion is never made in isolation. Singh reiterated the Prime Minister Narendra Modi-led Government's commitment to strengthening India's sporting ecosystem, with sustained focus on infrastructure, modern training facilities and better opportunities for athletes. He underlined that the objective is not merely to increase participation but to establish India as a leading power in the global sporting arena. On the significant contribution of the Services to Indian sports, Singh asserted that the Defence Forces have consistently produced athletes distinguished not only by their physical prowess but also by discipline, patience, leadership and an unwavering commitment to their goals in challenging circumstances. Singh also called for a focused and systematic approach towards the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics, urging trainers and support staff to continue guiding athletes with dedication and professionalism. He urged them to set higher goals and deliver an even better performance at the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics. Chief of the Army Staff General Dhiraj Seth and other senior officials were present on the occasion. (ANI)
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