Haryana’s 32 Asiad medallists return to rousing welcome

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Sports Minister assures athletes of continued support, better training, coaching and modern sports infrastructure

Chandigarh: Haryana sportspersons returning after a strong showing at the Asian Games in Japan were accorded a warm welcome by Haryana Minister of State for Sports Gaurav Gautam at the Indira Gandhi International Airport in New Delhi on Monday.

Welcoming the athletes with floral garlands, the minister said Indian sportspersons won 85 medals at the Asian Games, with those from Haryana accounting for 32, including 14 gold, nine silver and nine bronze medals.

Gautam said the performance reflected Haryana’s strength in sport and assured the athletes of continued government support. He also interacted with the sportspersons individually and enquired about their performances, experiences at the Games and preparations for upcoming competitions.

The minister credited the state’s sports policies and schemes under Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini for creating an environment conducive to sporting success. He also acknowledged the role of parents, coaches and sporting institutions in the athletes’ achievements.

Gautam said the 14 gold medals won by Haryana athletes reflected their determination to compete for the top spot at international events. He said the government would continue to focus on better training, nutrition, coaching and modern sports infrastructure.

He said particular attention would be given to identifying and nurturing sporting talent in villages and smaller towns, noting that several of Haryana’s international athletes had emerged from rural backgrounds.

The minister further said the success of the medal-winning athletes could inspire more youngsters to take up sport and pursue competitive careers. He urged the players to continue working towards success at the Asian, world and Olympic levels.

“The government will leave no stone unturned in honouring and encouraging medal-winning athletes,” Gautam said, while congratulating the players, their families and coaches.