Amid the accolades for their unprecedented success at the 19th Asian Games, Indian athletes praised Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s motivational presence, along with the Centre’s sports policy.
The Indian contingent finished with their highest-ever haul of 107 medals in Hangzhou. With 28 gold medals, 38 silver medals, and 41 bronze medals, India finished fourth in the Asian Games overall standings as the event ended on October 7.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday interacted with Indian athletes who participated in the Hangzhou Asian Games at Major Dhyan Chand Stadium in Delhi. “I welcome all of you (athletes) on behalf of 140 crore Indians. Because of your hard work and achievements, there is an atmosphere of celebration across the country," PM Modi said during an interaction.
Interacting with our incredible athletes who represented India at the Asian Games. Their outstanding performances exemplify true spirit of sportsmanship. https://t.co/SAcnyJDTlc— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) October 10, 2023
“The government will pull all stops to ensure the athletes get the best. You have crossed 100 medals. Next time, we will go way past this record. Put your best effort for the Paris (Olympics)," Modi said while felicitating the Asian Games contingent here on Tuesday.
The athletes expressed how they valued the gesture and the leadership.
Neeraj Chopra, who won the gold medal in men’s javelin throw, thanked the PM for bringing about an incredible shift in the sporting culture of India, by personally meeting them and listening to them.
“India is excelling in various fields, and now is the perfect time for us Indians to achieve remarkable feats!" says @Neeraj_chopra1The Javelin star attributes all credit to PM @narendramodi for bringing about an incredible shift in the sporting culture of India, by personally… pic.twitter.com/ImpuiRJk60
— New India Junction (@nijunction) October 10, 2023
Cricketer Yashasvi Jaiswal said that PM Modi was a tremendous source of inspiration for them. “Whenever we witness him making India proud, it fuels our determination to do the same. It’s truly incredible to have a leader of his caliber. This is undoubtedly the right time for India."
Indian Cricketer Yashasvi Jaiswal says Yahi Samay Hai, Sahi Samay Hai!“PM @narendramodi has been a tremendous source of inspiration for us. Whenever we witness him making India proud, it fuels our determination to do the same. It’s truly incredible to have a leader of his… pic.twitter.com/Dck1uTYsE0
— New India Junction (@nijunction) October 10, 2023
As the women’s cricket team won their maiden T20 gold medal, captain Harmanpreet Kaur said, “Participating in the Asian Games was indeed an honour for us. We are incredibly grateful for the opportunity, which was made possible thanks to our Prime Minister Narendra Modi. This is a moment of great significance for the youth of India."
“Participating in the Asian Games was indeed an honour for us. We are incredibly grateful for the opportunity, which was made possible thanks to our Prime Minister @narendramodi. This is a moment of great significance for the youth of India."- said the Indian Cricket team’s… pic.twitter.com/gDTETUVINo— New India Junction (@nijunction) October 10, 2023
Savita Punia, captain of the women’s hockey that won a bronze medal, highlighted how PM Modi’s speeches inspired them to strive for excellence.
Yehi Samay Hai, Sahi Samay HaiNari Shakti Ka Anmol Samay Hai!“We’re always thrilled about the possibility of winning medals & having the chance to meet PM @narendramodi. His speeches are incredibly inspiring and genuinely encourage us to strive for excellence each and every… pic.twitter.com/vyBcOv2yEf
— New India Junction (@nijunction) October 10, 2023
Harmanpreet Singh, Captain of the men’s hockey team that won a gold medal, thanked the government for the support and the facilities.
“We are receiving substantial support from the government, along with access to excellent facilities. It serves as a tremendous source of motivation for us, the athletes, when Prime Minister @narendramodi engages with us and provides inspiration."Indian Hockey team captain… pic.twitter.com/5kJ6g8A628
— New India Junction (@nijunction) October 10, 2023
Tajinderpal Singh Toor, who won the gold in men’s shotput, said that the TOPS schemes, Khelo India, and other initiatives spearheaded by PM Modi have provided tremendous support to sports.
“I’d like to emphasize that the TOPS schemes, Khelo India, and other initiatives spearheaded by PM @narendramodi have provided tremendous support to sports. I encourage the youth to actively participate in sports and help elevate India’s name on the international stage," says… pic.twitter.com/x1upVHvQju— New India Junction (@nijunction) October 10, 2023
PR Sreejesh, Hockey goalkeeper, recalled PM Modi’s call during the Olympics.
Goalkeeper Sreejesh Recalls PM @narendramodi‘s Call During Olympics“Modi ji is always there to support us. He calls us, encourages us. Even after we faced setbacks in the last Olympics, he reached out and called us personally. It’s incredibly inspiring to have the Prime… pic.twitter.com/8wbzEdTo56
— New India Junction (@nijunction) October 10, 2023
Shooter Manu Bhaker said that all athletes are the ‘Greatest of All Time’ i.e. G.O.A.T. for PM Modi.
“PM @narendramodi said that all of us atheletes are for him the ‘Greatest of All Time’ i.e. G.O.A.T. and it is quite encouraging. I want to thank him from the bottom of my heart for what he has done for us atheletes," says sport shooter @realmanubhaker on #VijetaBharatJoin the… pic.twitter.com/poIm0C36MQ
— New India Junction (@nijunction) October 10, 2023
Harmilan Bains, who won the silver medal in women’s 1500m, said that it was extraordinary to have a personality like him follow her on Twitter!
It’s truly something extraordinary to have a personality like him follow me on Twitter!“The day I won PM @narendramodi followed me on Twitter. He not only tweeted about my victory in the 1500m but also celebrated my success in the 800m. It provides a unique and unparalleled… pic.twitter.com/bfZAvmR3sk
— New India Junction (@nijunction) October 10, 2023
Pawan Sehrawat, from the men’s Kabaddi team that won the gold, said that it was the the first time that winners were getting the opportunity to meet the Prime Minister, which never happened with to their senior athletes who performed exceptionally.
“It’s the first time that winners get the opportunity to meet the Prime Minister, which never happened with our senior athletes who performed exceptionally and won gold medals. This is a new level of encouragement and recognition," says Kabaddi player @pawan_kumar17… pic.twitter.com/OBuvSvXKqF— New India Junction (@nijunction) October 10, 2023
Nikhat Zareen, boxer who won a bronze medal in 50 kg category, thanked PM Modi for his motivation.
“PM @narendramodi‘s personal motivation goes a long way to push atheletes to perform good," boxer @nikhat_zareen.She adds how the TOPS scheme has supported the dreams of all atheletes paving the way for #VijetaBharat!
Join the buzz on NIJ at #NewIndiaDebates pic.twitter.com/RLL79CFx00
— New India Junction (@nijunction) October 10, 2023
Other champions such as Naorem Roshibina Devi (wushu), Abhay Singh (squash), Sourav Ghoshal, (squash), Naresh Kalwania (rowing), Nandini Agasara (heptathlon), Satnam Singh (rowing) and Aarathy Kasturiraj (speed skating) too lauded the PM.
"It's an incredible feeling to meet PM @narendramodi, and it's thanks to him that we've crossed the 100 medals tally. With continued support like this, we can aim for even more medals in the future," says wushu player Naorem Roshibina Devi on #VijetaBharat Join the excitement… pic.twitter.com/1qPdvboJNQ
— New India Junction (@nijunction) October 10, 2023
Abhay Singh's Special 'Coffee Pe Charcha' with PM @narendramodi!"I am thrilled to have contributed to this remarkable 100+ medal tally. I have full confidence that the next Asian Games will be even more successful. The Modi government has been instrumental in supporting us… pic.twitter.com/VMFY6xIPZw
— New India Junction (@nijunction) October 10, 2023
"PM @narendramodi's words of encouragement have given a great impetus to us atheletes to do the best we can and achive our potential," says squash player @SauravGhosal on #VijetaBharatJoin the buzz on NIJ with #NewIndiaDebates pic.twitter.com/kroPAtOlPS
— New India Junction (@nijunction) October 10, 2023
"This is the first time we've achieved such a remarkable medal count, setting a new record by crossing the 100-mark. PM Modi's Khelo India initiative has played a pivotal role in motivating numerous new players to excel and contribute to this success," says rowing star Naresh… pic.twitter.com/fscOnpTjXj— New India Junction (@nijunction) October 10, 2023
"I am overjoyed because this marks my first medal at the Asian Games. My participation and victory in the Khelo India Games have played a pivotal role in securing scholarships for me. I want to express my heartfelt gratitude to Prime Minister @narendramodi."Heptathlon champion… pic.twitter.com/VcbZbT5rES
— New India Junction (@nijunction) October 10, 2023
"I am incredibly excited to see PM Modi today. The monthly stipend we receive and the support for opportunities like training abroad are making a significant difference in our careers, and we are truly grateful for it," says rowing star Satnam Singh on #VijetaBharatJoin the… pic.twitter.com/cmp869x2Ag
— New India Junction (@nijunction) October 10, 2023
"We have witnessed significant change, receiving much-needed support, from financial assistance to improved infrastructure, courtesy of the government."India's speed skater from Chennai Aarathy Kasturi Raj expresses how the sports sector has changed so much, thanks to reforms… pic.twitter.com/MLa2LuER0f
— New India Junction (@nijunction) October 10, 2023
From Rhythm Sangwan, Mehuli Ghosh, Sarbjot Singh, Swapnil Kusale to Rudrankksh Patil, Prithviraj Tondaiman, Arjun Singh Cheema and Ashi Chouksey, the shooters, too, cheered for PM Modi
"It was truly inspiring to see PM @narendramodi today, and his message against drug abuse was impactful. I'm sincerely grateful to have such leadership in our country," says sport shooter @SangwanRhythm on #VijetaBharatJoin the excitement on NIJ with #NewIndiaDebates! pic.twitter.com/dojO4ifnh5
— New India Junction (@nijunction) October 10, 2023
"A lot has changed since 2013-14 when I first started shooting, especially in terms of infrastructure. Being a part of TOPS has significantly contributed to receiving better training, equipment, and improving our performance. It's crucial to keep upgrading oneself, and PM… pic.twitter.com/vwLIXRFwCP— New India Junction (@nijunction) October 10, 2023
"Now, I firmly believe that India has truly arrived! The Khelo India scheme and TOPS scheme have made an immense difference for athletes like me. They cover everything from hostels and stipends to free training and even equipment like pellets for my pistol. PM @narendramodi's… pic.twitter.com/xu5R54gn0u— New India Junction (@nijunction) October 10, 2023
"We always take immense pride in representing our country and achieving victories. It's heartening to know that Prime Minister @narendramodi is consistently there to support and encourage us in our endeavours."India's ace rifle shooter Swapnil Kusale tells us how contributing… pic.twitter.com/QmlgnJPQPx
— New India Junction (@nijunction) October 10, 2023
"Today, PM @narendramodi provided us with a tremendous amount of motivation through his words. He referred to us as the brand ambassadors of India, individuals whom the youth admire and look up to. He urged us to take on the role of spreading awareness about drug-use prevention,… pic.twitter.com/GnchcFmJyl— New India Junction (@nijunction) October 10, 2023
"I am deeply grateful for Prime Minister @narendramodi's unwavering support. Increased funding for training and improved facilities have brought about a significant transformation. This marks the first time we have secured a medal, and I firmly believe that we are heading in the… pic.twitter.com/FMs7E9uX0G— New India Junction (@nijunction) October 10, 2023
"The Khelo India and TOPS schemes have turned dreams into reality for countless athletes here. I echo PM Modi's message against drug use and urge the youth to abstain from it, channel their energy into sports, and pursue their dreams," says sport shooter Arjun Singh Cheema on… pic.twitter.com/XQRQzLEzR7— New India Junction (@nijunction) October 10, 2023
"Today, we had the privilege of meeting with Prime Minister Modi, and his words have truly inspired us. As we look forward to the upcoming Asian Games, we are hopeful and determined to achieve even more medals."The star Air rifle shooter credited PM @narendramodi's schemes that… pic.twitter.com/KKoCHzKDNb
— New India Junction (@nijunction) October 10, 2023
"Now, all players are thinking big and viewing the world as their playing field and ultimate goal. Our Modi government is giving us full support for this," says wrestler Sunil Kumar on #VijetaBharat Join the excitement on NIJ with #NewIndiaDebates! pic.twitter.com/Jkwss71ihA
— New India Junction (@nijunction) October 10, 2023
Thanks to PM Modi, our performance is reaching new heights!"We are receiving every possible assistance, and have no complaints, not even 1% for anything. We cherish the moments when PM @narendramodi invites us and offers guidance on what to do for the future. With such support… pic.twitter.com/5w6vihewQd
— New India Junction (@nijunction) October 10, 2023
"We have no fear, whether it's China or Japan because we believe that Indians are on par with anyone else. Thanks to PM Modi, we receive unwavering support and motivation. We are provided with opportunities for training abroad, and all our requirements are met," says wrestler… pic.twitter.com/8gQAHd9cPA— New India Junction (@nijunction) October 10, 2023
"The Khelo India Games have emerged as a significant platform for spotting new talent, and these hidden gems are now contributing to our medal tally. Earlier, we lacked infrastructure, now it is at par with international standards! The motivation we receive from Prime Minister… pic.twitter.com/tZtKeNJi7m— New India Junction (@nijunction) October 10, 2023
"We express our gratitude to PM @narendramodi for introducing initiatives that support athletes from the grassroots level and provide excellent facilities through Khelo India centers. This is a significant factor behind India's success in winning numerous medals," says Indian… pic.twitter.com/6uvnvSMVJH— New India Junction (@nijunction) October 10, 2023
"Even a child from an ordinary family can now dream of accessing excellent opportunities through various government schemes and pursuing a career in sports. The numerous medals we have won are a testament to the government's relentless efforts. Prime Minister @narendramodi… pic.twitter.com/iTE1xinJrp— New India Junction (@nijunction) October 10, 2023
"Yahi Samay Hai, Sahi Samay Hai!"यही समय है, सही समय है.. The brand ambassadors of India, the icons of #VijetaBharat joins the excitement of #NewIndiaDebates on NIJ! pic.twitter.com/SZdXZM3rSm
— New India Junction (@nijunction) October 10, 2023
"Yahi Samay Hai, Sahi Samay Hai!"यही समय है, सही समय है..The Asian Games champions, alongside Union Minister @ianuragthakur, echo PM @narendramodi's inspiring call to the youth!#VijetaBharat
Join the excitement of #NewIndiaDebates on NIJ! pic.twitter.com/7MGZzWnBrB
— New India Junction (@nijunction) October 10, 2023
"Yahi Samay Hai, Sahi Samay Hai!"यही समय है, सही समय है.. From the youth, for the youth – a message that profoundly resonates with Yuva Shakti and aligns with the spirit of #VijetaBharat
Here are the winners of the Asian Games, echoing Prime Minister @narendramodi's powerful… pic.twitter.com/LBX9rVDL8r
— New India Junction (@nijunction) October 10, 2023
Wrestlers Sunil Kumar, Deepak Punia, Kiran Bishnoi, archers Ojas Deotale, Jyothi Surekha, and shotput player Kiran Baliyan, too, echoed the sentiment.
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