New Delhi, Nov 6 (NationPress) Olympic silver medallist weightlifter Saikhom Mirabai Chanu revealed how Prime Minister Narendra Modi consistently provides timely support and confidence to athletes, creating a nurturing environment where talent can truly thrive.

Chanu feels that this combination of personal motivation and institutional support signifies a leader genuinely committed to India's sporting legacy.

In the months leading up to the Tokyo Olympics, the athlete faced an injury during a time of strict travel restrictions due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Mirabai and her team sought government approval to travel to the U.S. for medical treatment and training. "Within just a day, the PM granted our request," she stated.

In a video shared by the Modi Story handle on X, Chanu expressed, "Before the Tokyo Olympics, it was challenging to train during the lockdown. As the Olympics were nearing, we needed to manage our training schedule. Thus, we requested the government to permit me to travel to the U.S. for training. I conveyed that I aimed to win a medal for India at the Olympics and required adequate preparation for it."

"We submitted this request through our federation and the TOPS (Target Olympic Podium Scheme). Within a day, our Prime Minister approved it and facilitated my training in the U.S. for the Olympics.

This swift decision turned out to be pivotal for her career. After focused training, Mirabai returned even more determined and ultimately clinched a medal for India. "I feel fortunate to have had the opportunity to work diligently and secure a medal for my country," she remarked.

"After that, I trained rigorously, and on the very first day of the Olympics, I achieved a medal for India. I was elated to have accomplished something significant for India at the Olympics," she added.

Post her Olympic success, PM Modi extended his congratulations. Mirabai noted that he takes a genuine interest in the holistic development of athletes, often providing advice for their improvement. Emphasizing how his encouragement drives athletes to exceed their limits, she remarked, "This is precisely what every athlete desires from their leadership."

"When I won the medal, our Prime Minister congratulated me. Every athlete aspires to win an Olympic medal and receive such backing. That day, receiving the Prime Minister's congratulations felt exceptionally special.

"The Prime Minister consistently backs all our athletes. Even prior to the Olympics, we engaged in discussions, and he provided valuable insights on how to enhance our strengths and address our weaknesses. The Prime Minister has always offered us remarkable support," Chanu concluded.