PM Modi Celebrates Commonwealth Games 2026 Medalists at Residence

Prime Minister Modi Honors Athletes

On Sunday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi welcomed India's medal winners from the Commonwealth Games 2026 to his residence, commending their hard work and dedication in bringing pride to the nation.

During the gathering, PM Modi noted that athletes frequently visit his home and acknowledged their relentless efforts over the years to secure victories for India.

"Having been in this house for around 12 to 13 years, I can say that athletes are among the most regular visitors. Your dedication over the past decade has led to remarkable achievements for India," PM Modi stated in a video shared on his YouTube channel.

The Prime Minister emphasized how the accomplishments of these athletes serve as a powerful motivation for the youth to engage in sports, asserting that their medals convey more inspiration than mere words.

"The influence we can have by visiting schools and encouraging them to play is overshadowed by the inspiration your medals provide," he remarked.

During the meeting, PM Modi also spoke with individual athletes. He recalled a promise made by Sharmila Dhankar, the women's shot put F57 gold medalist, regarding her daughters' aspirations to become athletes.

"You assured me last time that your daughters would pursue athletics," PM Modi reminded her.

Sharmila responded, "Yes, they are still young. In the next Commonwealth Games, we will bring home three medals from our family."

Additionally, PM Modi shared a light-hearted moment with Seema Kaliramna, the bronze medalist in women's discus throw, who expressed her nervousness during the meeting.

"My heart is racing, sir," Seema admitted.

"Don't worry. You’ll earn a medal for your speech too!" PM Modi joked.

Seema later expressed her joy about meeting the Prime Minister, sharing that her friends often asked her in Haryanvi if she would get the chance to meet him.

"My friends would ask, 'Have you met PM Modi so we can listen to you?' Today, I can proudly say, 'Yes, I have met Modi-ji,'" she said.

PM Modi reiterated the importance of fostering a sports culture in India to achieve greater international success.

"While sports infrastructure is crucial, a country earns medals when a robust sports culture is established. You all have done an incredible job in bringing honor to our nation. Congratulations to each of you," he stated.

Expressing optimism for their future endeavors, PM Modi conveyed his belief that these athletes would continue to excel and hoped to meet them again after further victories.

"Trust me, you will achieve more success, and we will gather here once again. Thank you and best wishes," he concluded.

India concluded its Commonwealth Games journey in Glasgow with a total of 39 medals, comprising 13 gold, 17 silver, and nine bronze, securing fourth place in the overall medal tally.

The Glasgow Games wrapped up after 11 days of competition, with Scotland officially handing over the Commonwealth Games flag and ceremonial baton to India, which is set to host the centenary edition of the multi-sport event in Ahmedabad in 2030.