It was an evening of celebrating sporting excellence as the Union Sports Ministry felicitated India’s Commonwealth Games medalists from Glasgow at the Vigyan Bhawan here on Friday. For once, even the presence of cricket legend and Bharat Ratna Sachin Tendulkar could not steal the limelight from the winners.
As most of the medalists of the Glasgow Games walked into the function hall, it was a melee as everyone — school students, host officials and the media — mobbed the winners. The loudest cheers were reserved for wrestlers Sushil Kumar and Yogeshwar Dutt and powerlifters Rajender Rahelu and Sakina Khatun.
Shooter Gagan Narang and wrestler Yogeshwar Dutt were the most in demand, obliging requests from fans wanting to click selfies. However, Abhinav Bindra, Vikas Gowda and Manavjit Sandhu were unable to make it to the event.
“I am happy about winning two medals but the best part at the Games was the fact that several youngsters and newcomers won medals in shooting. This only proves that the future of Indian shooting is safe and bright,” Narang said.
Sports minister Sarbananda Sonowal lauded India’s efforts and promised more support and facilities in future.
“I know you underwent years of training and hard work to reach this level. Success comes only when you are passionate about it. Whatever you may be, think of it, dream of it and live it all you life,” Sonowal said.
The Sports Minister also reiterated the government’s commitment of building a sports university in Manipur worth 100 crore and developing sports infrastructure In Jammu and Kashmir worth 200 crore. Tendulkar also unveiled the new logo of the Sports Authority on the occasion. “As a sportsperson, I understand what it takes to be at this level and then go out and perform. Specially the women, who have had to struggle more than most to achieve what they. All I wish to say is, don’t waste your energy or time thinking of people who put up obstacles. There are such people everywhere but they don’t matter.”
Shooter and sitting Member of Parliament Rajyawardhan Singh Rathore was also present on the occasion.
