Union Sports Minister Interacts with Sports Champions on Republic Day Eve

New Delhi:  On the eve of Republic Day, Shri Anurag Singh Thakur, the Union Minister for Youth Affairs and Sports, engaged in a heartwarming interaction with sports champions who have been specially invited by the Government of India to be part of the Republic Day celebrations in New Delhi.

Addressing the gathering, Shri Anurag Singh Thakur highlighted India’s remarkable progress in various spheres, noting that the country’s economy has now become the fifth-largest in the world. Expressing optimism, he declared that under the leadership of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, India is poised to become the third-largest economy within the next five years. The Union Minister commended the inspirational stories of athletes, emphasizing that these tales of success serve as motivation for other sportspersons across the nation.

Shri Thakur underscored India’s advancements in both security and soft power, attributing a portion of this success to the invaluable contributions made by athletes. He extended his gratitude to the sports champions for gracing the Republic Day celebrations as special guests, an invitation extended by the President of India and Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi.

The athletes, in turn, expressed their appreciation to the Union Minister and the Government of India for the honor of participating in the Republic Day celebrations at Kartavya Path.

Sharing his excitement, Indian boxer Shri Gaurav Bhaduri recounted his journey from watching the Republic Day celebrations on television to being a part of the event in person. He thanked the Government of India for helping him realize this childhood dream.

Paralympian and shooter Shri Singhraj Adhana shared insights into his journey as a shooter, highlighting the crucial role played by programs such as Target Olympic Podium Scheme (TOPS) and Khelo India. These initiatives, according to Adhana, make it possible for athletes from every corner of India to unlock their sporting potential.

A total of 12 distinguished athletes have been extended special invitations to witness the Republic Day celebrations, underscoring the government’s commitment to honoring and celebrating the achievements of the nation’s sports heroes. The interaction served as a testament to the symbiotic relationship between sports and national pride, fostering inspiration and camaraderie among the sporting community and the nation at large.