Vaccination and training needs of sportspersons must be fulfilled on top priority: PM
New Delhi: With exactly 50 days remaining for the Tokyo Olympics, Prime Minister Narendra Modi reviewed India’s Olympics preparations and was briefed about the vaccination status of sportspersons and support staff, today.
The Prime Minister directed that every qualified and probable athlete, support staff and officials travelling to the Tokyo Olympics must be vaccinated as soon as possible. He said he would be connecting with our Olympics contingent through a video conference in July, to encourage them and wish them on behalf of all Indians. “Sports is at the heart of our national character and our youth are creating a strong and vibrant culture of sports,” he said.
Officials said that special attention will also be given towards motivating athletes and boosting their morale while they participate in the Olympics. Therefore, regular video conferences will be organised with their parents and family members back in India, throughout the course of the competition.
A total of 100 athletes have qualified for Tokyo Olympics across 11 sports disciplines and about 25 more athletes are likely to qualify for Tokyo Olympics details of which will emerge by end of June 2021. While a total of 19 Indian athletes had participated at the last Paralympics in 2016 at Rio de Janeiro, 26 para athletes have qualified and 16 more athletes are likely to qualify for the Tokyo Olympics.
Meanwhile, Union Minister for Youth Affairs and Sports, Kiren Rijiju today unveiled the official kit for Team India at the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games in the presence of Indian Olympic Association President, Dr. Narinder Dhruv Batra and Secretary-General Rajeev Mehta.
The official styling partner – Raymond will deliver the ceremonial kits and the official sports apparel partner – Li-Ning will supply the sports attire, including the travel and playing kits for the athletes heading to Tokyo. Li-Ning designed the official sports kit inspired by India’s national colours and integrated unique graphics to emote the energy and pride of the Indian Olympic Team. The designs of the official kits were curated by the Indian Olympic Association with a helping hand and support from designer Ms. Iditri Goel.
– global bihari bureau
