Will make Olympics in India happen: PM Modi inspires Asiad medallists to aim big

India’s Asian Games medallists said their meeting with Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday had given them a renewed sense of confidence. Athletes believe that his words of motivation would encourage them to set their sights on greater achievements at the 2028 Olympics and also power the bid to bring the game to India in 2036.

Modi interacted with the medal-winners at the Major Dhyan Chand Stadium, congratulating them on their success at the continental event. He also spoke about India’s broader sporting ambitions, including the country’s plans to host the 2030 Commonwealth Games and its efforts to bring the 2036 Olympics to Indian soil.

Boxer Lovlina Borgohain said the Prime Minister’s vision for the future of Indian sport, coupled with his encouraging message to the athletes, had motivated them to aim higher and pursue bigger dreams.

“The way he motivated us and spoke about the hard work of athletes and his vision for the future was very motivating,” she said.

“He spoke about the Commonwealth Games and the efforts to host the 2036 Olympics. It is a big thing for every athlete that we can dream of hosting such big events in India. We will make it happen,” she added.

Sailor Nethra Kumanan, who secured bronze in the women’s ILCA 6 event, said the meeting had strengthened her optimism about the future of Indian sport.

“The schemes and infrastructure he’s built are a huge motivation for the sport to grow in the country. It’s inspiring to see it grow, it’s inspiring to be a part of it,” Kumanan said.

Vithya Ramraj, who won three medals in Nagoya, said that Modi had urged the athletes to push themselves to achieve their best results at the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics.

“He told us that we will do it. We will give our 100 per cent for the pride of our country,” said Ramraj.

Indian men’s hockey captain Harmanpreet Singh described the meeting as a motivating experience, noting that Modi’s practice of interacting with sportspersons both before and after major tournaments was a welcome initiative.

“He spoke about the budget, sports and the overall picture. We were saying, ‘We will do it’, and I think it felt very good,” said Harmanpreet.

PM Modi also had special praise for the female athletes, who brought home medals from the Asian Games 2026 during his riveting speech.

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