Prime Minister Narendra Modi on August 15, on the occasion of Independence Day, from the ramparts of the Red Fort, lauded the stellar performance of Indian players in the Tokyo Olympics. The very next day, PM Modi met the players during breakfast at his residence. India has given its best performance so far in the Tokyo Olympics. Indian athletes have won a record seven medals in the recently held Olympics in Japan’s capital Tokyo. During this meeting held at PM’s residence at 7 Lok Kalyan Marg, Modi interacted with gold medalist Neeraj Chopra, female wrestler Vinesh Phogat and other players. Modi has also shared the video of the meeting with the players on his Twitter handle.
We should respect the players and their achievements
There was a long conversation between the PM and the players. But in this conversation, five such special things were very important, which Modi did to the players. The PM told the players, ‘The love for the game and the players is well known. We should give more respect to the players and their achievements. We have to understand that sports alone can lift a nation. In 2016 itself, he did a lot of work towards improving his performance. Now the result is in front of everyone. Understanding the psychological impact of elite athletes and telling them that they are amazing, whether they win medals or not. We must appreciate their hard work, commitment and dedication at all costs.
Women wrestler Vinesh Phogat encouraged
From having ice-creams and Churma to discussing good health and fitness, from inspiring anecdotes to lighter moments…watch what happened when I had the opportunity to host India’s #Tokyo2020 contingent at 7, LKM. The program begins at 9 AM. pic.twitter.com/u5trUef4kS
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) August 18, 2021
Modi also supported and encouraged star female wrestler Vinesh Phogat. After returning from the Tokyo Olympics, Phogat was temporarily suspended for indiscipline. Vinesh later apologized to the Wrestling Federation of India (WFI), but his suspension has not been withdrawn yet. Vinesh has got the support of PM Modi after this entire controversy.
Appreciation of the spirit of the players during the Tokyo Olympics
He also mentioned Bajrang’s knee, Lovlina Borgohain’s mother, men’s hockey team goalkeeper PR Sreejesh sitting on top of the goalpost after the win, Neeraj celebrating after his second throw, a last minute move by Dahiya in wrestling in the semi-finals and then Reaching the final, Rani Rampal, the captain of the women’s hockey team, comforted her teammates after the semi-final loss. He said that these are things that only a discerning sports lover would notice.
Qualifying for the Olympics has a different significance
The Prime Minister further said, ‘These are the athletes who have emerged out of 130 crore people. By reaching here, you all have become a source of inspiration for others. Qualifying for the Olympics has its own importance. The country is proud of your participation and they are very happy with you. If you all win then the country celebrates more. We should respect the players and their achievements.
All athletes to visit 75 schools for the next two years
Modi also asked all the athletes to visit around 75 schools for the next two years and talk to the school children about nutrition, diet and its importance for normal development. He asked the athletes to play any sport with the school children for about 10 minutes. Playing with an Olympian will inspire youngsters and boost their confidence.