New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi hosted India’s Commonwealth Games 2026 medal winners at his residence and praised their performances, saying their achievements had gone beyond winning medals and would motivate a new generation to embrace sport.
During his interaction with the athletes, Modi recalled that sportspersons have been among the groups he has regularly welcomed at his residence over the past 12 to 13 years. He credited the dedication and hard work of Indian athletes for the country’s consistent performances at major international competitions.
The Prime Minister said the impact of sporting success could be more powerful than conventional campaigns promoting fitness and participation in sports.
“You have not just won medals, you have inspired a generation,” Modi told the athletes, highlighting the wider significance of their performances.
He specifically praised boxer Lovlina Borgohain for objecting to a distorted representation of India on a map displayed at a restaurant in Glasgow during the Games. Modi described her action as significant and said it would be remembered for a long time.
The Prime Minister also recalled weightlifter Saikhom Mirabai Chanu’s emotional reaction after winning her medal. Chanu said her tears reflected years of challenges, including injuries, family difficulties and the disappointment of missing out on a medal at the Paris Olympics. She said seeing the Indian flag rise and hearing the national anthem made the moment particularly emotional.
Modi said the athletes’ victories should be viewed as more than personal accomplishments because they could inspire future generations to pursue sporting dreams.
India finished fourth in the Glasgow Commonwealth Games with 39 medals, comprising 13 gold, 17 silver and nine bronze. The country achieved the result with a smaller contingent than in Birmingham, sending 122 athletes compared with 210 in 2022.
India will host the 2030 Commonwealth Games in Ahmedabad. Olympic champion Neeraj Chopra, Indian Olympic Association president PT Usha and Gujarat Deputy Chief Minister Harsh Sanghavi received the Commonwealth Games flag and ceremonial baton during the closing ceremony.
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