NEW DELHI: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday felicitated the Indian contingent on its return from the Commonwealth Games, saying the ‘Golden Era‘ of Indian sports is about to dawn. He lauded the athletes for the record haul of medals at Birmingham. The PM hailed the revival of the country’s rich legacy of hockey and also the stupendous performance of women athletes besides the debutants.
Hosting the contingent at his residence, Modi said the athletes come from different states and diverse cultures and play different sports but the love for the nation and pride towards the ‘Tiranga’ unites them.

Nikhat Zareen presents her boxing gloves to PM Narendra Modi. (PTI Photo)
“The power of the Indian tricolour was seen in Ukraine where it had become a protective shield not only for Indians but also for citizens of other countries in getting out of the battlefield,” the PM said.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi with wrestlers Sakshi Malik and Vinesh Phogat. (PTI Photo)
He also said that numbers do not reflect the entire story as many medals were missed by the narrowest possible margins which will soon be rectified by the determined players. Recalling that the country’s athletes have proven their mettle in various other events, the PM said it is definitely a time of excitement and exultation for the Indian sport.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi with women’s hockey team captain Savita Punia. (PTI Photo)
“There are also many coaches and colleagues associated with sports administration, whose role in these successes has been excellent. But this is also the beginning…we are not going to sit quietly assuming satisfaction. The golden era of India’s sports is knocking,” the PM said and added, “Seeing the healthy mix of experience and energy, combined with superb teamwork, I can say Indian sports is in safe hands.”

Prime Minister Narendra Modi with weightlifter Mirabai Chanu. (PTI Photo)
Saying that 31 debutant athletes won medals, Modi also made special mention of women athletes. “Be it boxing, judo, wrestling, the way our daughters have dominated, it was amazing,” he said.