Modi interacts with Tokyo-bound athletes’ contingent

Bureau,Odishabarta

New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday interacted with Indian athletes’ contingent bound for Tokyo Olympics through video conference. The interaction by the Prime Minister was an endeavour to motivate the athletes ahead of their participation at the games. In an informal interaction, the Prime Minister motivated the athletes and thanked their families for their sacrifice.
Talking to Deepika Kumari (Archery), Modi congratulated her for the Gold in the World Championship. The Prime Minister mentioned that her journey began with plucking mangoes through archery and enquired about her journey as a sportsperson.

Modi lauded Pravin Jadhav (Archery) for staying on the path despite difficult circumstances. The Prime Minister also interacted with his family and praised their efforts.

Talking to Neeraj Chopra (Javelin Throw), the Prime Minister inquired about the athlete’s experience with the Indian Army and also his recovery from injury. Modi asked the athlete to give his best without getting bogged down by the weight of expectation.

With Dutee Chand (Sprint), Modi started with the meaning of her name, that is “brightness” and complimented her for spreading the light through her sporting skills. The Prime Minister asked her to forge ahead fearlessly as the entire nation is behind the athletes.

The Prime Minister asked Ashish Kumar why he chose boxing. Modi asked how he fought with both COVID-19 and kept with his training. Modi also praised him for not wavering from his goal despite the loss of his father. The athlete recalled the support network of family and friends in the process of recovery.

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