Tribune News Service

New Delhi, June 3

Prime Minister Narendra Modi chaired a review meeting of officials, including those from the Sports Ministry on India’s Olympics preparations.

The PM was briefed about measures taken by the officials, including uninterrupted training for athletes amidst the pandemic, participation in international competitions, vaccination of athletes.

During the meeting, the PM issued directions that all athletes, including those who have already qualified and the probables and support staff besides the officials travelling to the 2020 Summer Olympics must be vaccinated as soon as possible.

“Wishes of 135 crore Indians will be with our youngsters who are participating in the Olympics,” PM said during the meeting before adding, “For every young sportsperson shining on the global stage, a thousand more will be inspired to take up sports.”

PM Modi was also briefed that around 100 Indian athletes have qualified for Tokyo Olympics across 11 sports disciplines so far, the officials said that the figure may rise further with around 25 more athletes are likely to earn qualification in the coming weeks. A final picture about India’s participation will emerge by end of June 2021.

Similarly, the figure will rise for Paralympics. A total of 19 Indians had participated in the Rio Paralympics. This time 26 para athletes have already booked their tickets for Tokyo and 16 more athletes are likely to qualify.

The PM also disclosed that he would be connecting with the Indian contingent through a video conference sometime in July to wish them on behalf of all Indians.

Officials, including those from the Sports Authority of India said to keep the athletes motivated and to boost their morale regular video conferences will be organised with their parents and family members back in India.