Prime Minister Narendra Modi engaged in a significant virtual dialogue with athletes from across India on Thursday, marking the conclusion of the Sansad Khel Mahotsav. The session featured an extended focus on players from West Bengal, with a particularly memorable exchange with a young hockey prodigy from the hills.
A Special Conversation with a Rising Star
Among the most notable interactions was PM Modi's conversation with twelve-year-old hockey player Gunvansh Chhetri from Kalimpong. The son of former Indian hockey team captain and 2012 Olympian Sunil Chhetri, Gunvansh was selected for the virtual programme. He shared his disciplined routine with the Prime Minister, revealing he wakes up at 5 am daily for practice.
PM Modi posed a thoughtful question to the young athlete, asking if he preferred having his father present during matches or feared being scolded for mistakes. Gunvansh responded with maturity, stating, "My father gives me tips to improve my game. He has never allowed me to be overconfident. He has taught me how to play with ease even under pressure." This exchange was one of the longest during the nationwide session.
Emphasis on Talent from Smaller Regions
The choice to interact with a player from Kalimpong, one of India's smallest districts, did not go unnoticed. Darjeeling MP Raju Bista highlighted the significance, stating it demonstrated the Prime Minister's resolve to encourage talent from the hills and smaller areas. "The opportunity to go live with PM will always be encouraging to any player," Bista remarked.
The event saw the participation of state MPs alongside athletes from their respective constituencies. Ranaghat MP Jagannath Sarkar noted that while time constraints prevented conversations with everyone, Bengal was given considerable importance during the programme. He also mentioned previous initiatives like organised football tournaments.
PM Modi Hails the Spirit of India's Youth
Reflecting on the interactions, Prime Minister Modi expressed his admiration for the confidence displayed by the young sportspersons. "The confidence I witnessed within these players fills millions of the country's youth with the same spirit. That's why, in startups, space, science, and sports, India's youth have been waving their flag high in every field," he said.
He further emphasized the government's commitment to supporting athletes through initiatives like the Sansad Khel Pratiyogita. Modi added, "I am happy to know that you have received such a good platform to play and showcase your talent… People from all walks of life, from cities to villages, are involved in this event. The youth have set new milestones through this event."
The virtual event served as a powerful platform to connect national leadership with grassroots sporting talent, underscoring a continued push to identify and nurture potential from every corner of the nation.
