New Delhi, January 25: On the eve of the 76th Republic Day, President Droupadi Murmu has on Saturday evening, highlighted that India’s rising confidence is evident in the country’s sports achievements. She praised athletes for their inspiring success stories, which have made the nation proud and motivated the next generation to aim higher.
In her address to the nation, President Murmu said, “Our growing confidence as a nation is also reflected in the sports arena, where our athletes have created remarkable success stories. Last year, our athletes made a strong impact at the Olympic Games. In the Paralympics, we sent our largest-ever team and achieved our best-ever performance.”
She went on to celebrate India’s chess accomplishments, pointing out that the country’s chess players had captured global attention by winning gold at the FIDE Chess Olympiad. President Murmu also highlighted the remarkable achievement of D. Gukesh, who made history by becoming the youngest-ever World Chess Champion.
The President acknowledged the improved support system for athletes, noting that better training facilities are helping them excel.
India made history at the Paris Olympics, securing six medals, and went on to exceed all expectations at the Paralympics, bringing home 29 medals, including seven gold and nine silver.
Chess players have also had an outstanding year, with India claiming gold in both the men's and women’s team events at the Chess Olympiad for the first time. At just 18 years old, Gukesh has been unbeatable, becoming the youngest world chess champion and contributing significantly to India’s team victory with his gold medal performance.