Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh celebrated the achievements of Armed Forces medalists from the 19th Asian Games held in Hangzhou, China. He recognized 76 players and support staff and announced cash prizes for their outstanding performance. The Ministry of Defence recognized 16 individual medals (3 Gold, 6 Silver, 7 Bronze) and eight team medals (2 Gold, 3 Silver, 3 Bronze) won by these athletes. Gold medalists will receive Rs 25 lakh, Silver medalists Rs 15 lakh, and Bronze medalists Rs 10 lakh. A contingent of 88 soldiers, including three sportswomen, participated in 18 disciplines at the Games, held from September 23 to October 08, 2023.
During his address, Shri Rajnath Singh praised the athletes, including those who couldn’t win medals, and cited the example of the legendary Flying Sikh Milkha Singh, who narrowly missed a medal at the 1960 Olympics but became an icon of Indian athletics. He expressed confidence that their achievements would inspire India’s youth to pursue sports.
The Raksha Mantri commended the Armed Forces personnel for consistently achieving success in various sports and highlighted their dedication, discipline, and hard work, qualities that also serve them on the battlefield.
Shri Rajnath Singh noted that the athletes’ performance reflects India’s growing economic strength and the vision to excel in every field. He emphasized the government’s commitment to promoting a sports culture in the country through initiatives like Fit India and Khelo India. India is also working towards hosting the Olympic Games in 2036.
The ceremony was attended by Chief of Defence Staff General Anil Chauhan, Chief of the Air Staff Air Chief Marshal VR Chaudhari, Chief of the Army Staff General Manoj Pande, Vice Chief of the Naval Staff Vice Admiral Sanjay Jasjit Singh, and senior officers from the Sports Control Board of respective services.