The union minister Smriti Irani on Tuesday lauded Prime Minister Mr Narendra Modi for contributing towards Women's Hockey and for establishing 1000 Khelo India centres nationwide.
As per ANI, Smriti Irani said, “Nation saw how Women's Hockey team brought laurels once again. By establishing over 1000 Khelo India centres nationwide, PM has contributed to taking forward sporting skills. With TOPS, over 300 sportspersons availing benefits of Rs 5 Lakhs annually for next 8 yrs”.
“Due to this support of the Centre, you saw India's performance during the Olympics when India won its first gold medal in athletics. Even in Paralympics, the 19 medals indicate that even our specially abled youth can bring laurels to the country through their talent,” she added.
Earlier, Union Sports Minister Anurag Thakur on Friday stated that 1,000 Khelo India centres will be established across the country by August 15 next year.
"1000 Khelo India centres will be opened by 15th August 2023 across the country. Out of the 1,000 centres, 733 centres have been already sanctioned," said Thakur.
"In Tokyo Olympics and Paralympics 2020, we won our highest number of medals, seven and 19 respectively. India clinched the Thomas Cup badminton title for the first time ever. Boxer Nikhat Zareen captured a gold medal in IBA Boxing Women's World Championships. Our daughters have made us proud on many occasions," said the minister.