Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday lauded athletes Gurindervir Singh and Animesh Kujur for their outstanding performances after both sprinters broke the national 100-metre record three times within two days.
During the 134th episode of his monthly radio programme, Mann Ki Baat, the Prime Minister spoke with the athletes and praised their determination, competitive spirit and contribution to Indian athletics.
PM Modi highlighted the National Senior Athletics Federation Competition in Ranchi, where around 800 athletes competed, and several national records fell. He praised Gurindervir Singh, Vishak TK, Tejaswin Shankar, Dev Meena and Kuldeep Kumar for their achievements.
The Prime Minister particularly applauded Gurindervir Singh and Animesh Kujur for breaking the men’s 100-metre national record three times in two days.
Kujur, from Chhattisgarh’s Jashpur, said he took up sprinting during the Covid-19 pandemic. Gurindervir, a Petty Officer in the Indian Navy, credited his family’s sporting background for inspiring him. He clocked 10.1 seconds in Ranchi to become India’s fastest sprinter.
In a light-hearted exchange, PM Modi asked whether the two athletes had challenged each other to break records.
Kujur responded that both had aimed to push each other forward and elevate Indian sprinting.
Gurindervir added that while they remain close friends off the track, they compete fiercely during races.
Congratulating both athletes, PM Modi described their healthy rivalry and commitment to excellence as exemplary. He expressed confidence that their achievements would inspire young sportspersons and help take Indian athletics to greater heights.
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