PM Modi Engages with Special Olympics World Winter Games Team in Parliament
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Synopsis
On March 18, Prime Minister Modi met the Special Olympics World Winter Games contingent in Parliament, celebrating their achievement of 33 medals, including 8 gold, during the event held in Turin, Italy. The athletes' outstanding performance was recognized with increased cash prizes by the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports.
Key Takeaways
- PM Modi congratulated Indian athletes for winning 33 medals.
- The team included 30 athletes and 19 support staff.
- India won medals in six sports disciplines.
- Increased cash prizes for medal winners were announced.
- SAI provided support for training and competition.
New Delhi, March 18 (NationPress) Prime Minister Narendra Modi met with the Special Olympics World Winter Games team in Parliament on Tuesday, commending the athletes for their remarkable achievements, which included a total of 33 medals: 8 gold, 18 silver, and 7 bronze.
"I am extremely proud of our athletes who have brought honor to our nation at the Special Olympics World Winter Games held in Turin, Italy! Our outstanding team has returned home with 33 medals. I met the team in Parliament to celebrate their successes," PM Modi shared on X.
The Indian delegation, consisting of 30 athletes and 19 support staff, achieved an inspiring 33 medals across six sports: alpine skiing, snowboarding, floorball, snowshoeing, short track speed skating, and cross-country skiing.
India achieved 10 medals in both Snowshoeing and Alpine Skiing, while Snowboarding contributed 6 medals. Short Track Speed Skating, Cross Country Skiing, and Floorball accounted for 4, 2, and 1 medal respectively.
In recognition of these athletes' accomplishments, the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports has announced enhanced cash prizes for medalists, with those winning gold receiving Rs. 20 lakhs, silver medallists Rs. 14 lakhs, and bronze medallists Rs. 8 lakhs.
The Indian team, which includes 30 athletes, 3 officials, and 16 support staff including coaches, is the largest contingent. The Special Olympics World Winter Games featured 1500 athletes from 102 countries competing in eight sports.
The Union Sports Ministry has placed significant focus on supporting athletes with disabilities. To this end, the Sports Authority of India (SAI) organized 11 national coaching camps for these athletes in various cities, including Chandigarh, Narkanda, New Delhi, Gwalior, Noida, and Gurgaon, in preparation for the World Winter Games.
Furthermore, SAI provided essential equipment for training and competition. The Sports Ministry also allocated funds for airfare, lodging, and meals for the Indian contingent participating in the World Winter Games.
