Rajnath Singh Applauds Indian Athletes' Global Success Ahead of LA 2028 Olympics

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh has praised the recent successes of Indian athletes on the global stage, highlighting their growing confidence and the promising future for Indian sports at the LA 2028 Olympics. He emphasized the importance of sports-oriented education and the impact of the Khelo India initiative in boosting women's participation in sports. Singh's remarks came during the Sansad Khel Mahakumbh in Lucknow, where he celebrated the achievements of athletes like Harmanpreet Kaur and Suryakumar Yadav. The focus on grassroots sports development is seen as a key factor in nurturing future talent.

By Narendra Chaudhary Apr 14, 2026, 01:59 IST

Celebrating Indian Athletes' Achievements

Lucknow (Uttar Pradesh) [India], April 13: On Monday, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh commended the impressive performances of Indian athletes on the international stage, emphasizing that their achievements signify a growing sense of confidence and self-assurance among the nation’s youth in sports.

From remarkable victories in the Women’s ODI World Cup last year to outstanding performances in squash, along with the emergence of young talents in shooting and boxing, Indian sports are poised for a promising future at the LA 2028 Olympics.

Harmanpreet Kaur captained the Indian women's team during last year's World Cup, while Suryakumar Yadav led the men's team to a T20 World Cup victory at home in March. Additionally, India celebrated its first Mixed Team World Cup title in squash, achieved in Chennai.

“In recent years, our athletes have showcased exceptional performances in various international events. This reflects the soaring confidence of our young sportspeople today,” Rajnath Singh stated while addressing the Sansad Khel Mahakumbh in Lucknow.

He also pointed out that states are increasingly prioritizing sports-oriented higher education, commending Uttar Pradesh for its initiatives, particularly the establishment of the Major Dhyan Chand Sports University in Meerut.

“Efforts are underway in various states to enhance sports-specialized higher education. Uttar Pradesh is making significant strides in this area, as exemplified by the Major Dhyan Chand Sports University,” he remarked.

Rajnath further noted that the Khelo India initiative has played a crucial role in enhancing women's participation in sports, highlighting the successful Khelo India Women’s Leagues being organized in numerous cities, which have seen strong female athlete participation.

The Khelo India program aims to rejuvenate the sports culture in India from the grassroots level by establishing a robust framework for all sports disciplines in the country.

“Another positive outcome of the Khelo India initiative is the increased involvement of our daughters in sports. Khelo India Women’s Leagues are being held in many cities nationwide, with impressive participation from women,” Singh concluded.