Did Mirabai Chanu Just Reveal How PM Modi Approved Her Training Request Before the Tokyo Olympics?
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- PM Modi demonstrated swift support for athletes.
- Chanu faced significant challenges due to COVID-19.
- Government backing is crucial for athlete success.
- Personal encouragement from leaders fuels athletes' motivation.
- Chanu's journey highlights India's growing focus on sports.
New Delhi, Nov 6 (NationPress) Olympic silver medallist weightlifter Saikhom Mirabai Chanu revealed how Prime Minister Narendra Modi swiftly approved her request for foreign training just a day prior to the Tokyo Olympics. This highlights the Prime Minister's commitment to ensuring that athletes receive immediate support and confidence from the government, creating an atmosphere where talent can truly thrive.
Chanu emphasized that this blend of personal encouragement and institutional support exemplifies a leader genuinely devoted to India’s sporting ethos.
Before the Tokyo Olympics, the weightlifter faced a setback due to an injury, coinciding with travel restrictions imposed by the COVID-19 pandemic. Along with her team, she sought government permission to travel to the U.S. for recovery and training. “The PM granted our request in just a day,” she stated.
In a video shared by the Modi Story account on X, Chanu remarked, "During the lockdown leading up to the Tokyo Olympics, training was quite challenging. With the Olympics on the horizon, we needed to find a solution. I approached the government to allow me to train in the U.S. as I was determined to earn a medal for India this time."
"We submitted our request through our federation and the TOPS (Target Olympic Podium Scheme). Within a day, our Prime Minister approved it, allowing me to train in the U.S. for the upcoming Olympics."
This rapid decision proved pivotal in her career. Following rigorous training, Mirabai returned stronger and clinched a medal for India. “I feel incredibly grateful for the opportunity to train hard and represent my country at the Olympics,” she expressed.
"On the first day of the Olympics, I secured a medal for India. I was overjoyed to accomplish something significant for our nation," she added.
Following her Olympic victory, PM Modi congratulated her. Mirabai noted that he is genuinely invested in the overall growth of athletes, frequently offering insights to enhance their performance. She remarked that his encouragement drives athletes to exceed their limits, stating, “This is precisely what every athlete desires from their leadership.”
"When I received the medal, our Prime Minister congratulated me. Every athlete aspires to win an Olympic medal and to have such unwavering support. That day felt exceptionally special when he acknowledged my achievement.
"The Prime Minister continually backs all our athletes. Even before the Olympics, we had discussions where he provided valuable advice on overcoming our weaknesses. His unwavering support has always been a cornerstone for us," Chanu concluded.