'Filled with pride': PM Modi applauds para-athletes for record medal haul in Hangzhou
PTC News Desk: Prime Minister Narendra Modi praised India's para-athletes for leading the country to its highest medal tally of 111 at the Asian Para Games on Wednesday, saying their stupendous and record-breaking achievements in Hangzhou, China, have filled fellow countrymen with pride.
During an interaction with the para-athletes on Wednesday at the Major Dhyan Chand National Stadium in the national capital, PM Modi also encouraged them to raise the bar even higher and bring home more medals in future events.
Anurag Thakur, Union Minister for Sports and Youth Affairs, joined the para-athletes, coaches, and officials from the Paralympic Committee of India, the Indian Olympic Association, and national sports federations at the grand event.
PM Modi stated that he felt privileged to interact with the para-athletes, who showcased their extraordinary talents and skills to win medals for the country at the Hangzhou Games.
PM Modi praised the para-athletes' "extraordinary skills" and dedication, saying, "I keep finding opportunities to meet you. I feel privileged to be among you today and the only reason I am here is to congratulate you on your remarkable performances in the Asian Para Games. While you were competing for the country in China, I lived through your golden and unforgettable moments sitting here. What you all have achieved is unprecedented. Your performances have filled us with pride."
"Every single one of you was picked to represent your country. Some of you won while the rest came away with some learnings. No one lost. In sports, only two things happen -- either you win or you learn. You never lose," he further said.
Prime Minister Modi also met bronze medalist chess players Kishan Gangoli, Aryan Joshi, and Somendra, who represented India at the 4th Asian Para Games.
"Every citizen is proud of your achievements, you have brought home 111 medals, which is not a small number," PM Modi added.
India finished the Para Asian Games with 111 medals, including 29 golds, 31 silvers, and 51 bronzes.
India finished fifth in the medal count, with 55 medals in athletics, including 18 gold medals, 17 silver medals, and 20 bronze medals.
- ANI
