PM Modi Meets India’s Commonwealth Games Champions and Hails Emergence of Sport Culture

Prime Minister Narendra Modi met with the champions of India at the recent Commonwealth Games, said a Press Information Bureau press release, furthering his tradition of meeting the athletes during his 12-13 years tenure, he added.

Modi pointed out that medals win the hearts of schoolchildren more than the motivational speeches, and told the athletes that their achievements hold more significance among the children than any promotional tour. He individually interacted with many of the athletes, remembered his commitment made to one athlete regarding her daughters’ future in sport, and mentioned the emotional story of injured and personal hardships of players who emerged victorious despite all these.

PM also spoke of the rising global reputation of Indian players, especially boxers, and credited grassroots schemes such as the Khelo India Scheme for bringing about the change. He appreciated the athletes for not only earning medals but also making an entire generation of sports persons, and talked about the infrastructure development in training centers such as Varanasi and Bhopal.

The meet ended with a birthday celebration of an athlete by the PM.