New Delhi, India, August 14, 2022: Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi praised the sensational show of Team India at the Birmingham 2022 Commonwealth Games and stated “the golden period of Indian sports is knocking on the doors”.
Indian athletes produced a memorable performance in Birmingham claiming 61 medals including 22 gold, 16 silver and 23 bronze to finish fourth in the medal standings. They were the top-ranked Asian team at the Games.
Prime Minister Modi on Saturday, August 13, hosted the Indian contingent at his New Delhi residence to felicitate the athletes.
“The real assessment of this performance can’t be made with just the number of medals, as our athletes competed neck-to-neck. There may have been a difference of one second or one centimetre, but I’m confident we will make that up,” Modi said in his welcome speech.
“It is just a start and we are not going to sit quietly; the golden period of Indian sports is knocking on the doors.
“We have the responsibility of making a sporting system which is the best in the world, inclusive, diverse and dynamic. No talent should be left out as they are all assets,” Modi declared.
While India produced a dominating show in badminton, wrestling and weightlifting, the athletes also performed well in athletics, judo and lawn bowls.
“Not only are we strengthening the sports that we have been strong in but have also left a mark in new sports. In hockey we are trying to get our legacy back. Since the last time, we have won medals in four new sports. This performance will help increase youth interest in new sports. We have to improve our performance in new sports,” Modi added.
