New Residential Wing at Weightlifting Warriors Academy Aims to Cultivate Future Olympic Champions
Inauguration of the Residential Wing
Modi Nagar (Uttar Pradesh) - On June 8, Union Minister Kiren Rijiju expressed strong optimism regarding the newly inaugurated residential wing of the Weightlifting Warriors Academy, predicting it will nurture numerous Olympic champions in the coming years.
During the inauguration ceremony, Rijiju highlighted the significance of this facility, which serves as the training ground for Olympic Silver Medalist Mirabai Chanu, marking a pivotal step in India's preparations for the 2036 Olympics.
Rijiju shared his confidence on social media, stating, “I’m confident that we will definitely produce Olympic Champions from Weightlifting Warriors Academy, at Modinagar in Uttar Pradesh.”
I’m confident that we will definitely produce Olympic Champions from Weightlifting Warriors Academy, at Modinagar in Uttar Pradesh. A clip of my remarks: https://t.co/OBEocAkYUZ pic.twitter.com/PIjlMY4awR
— Kiren Rijiju (@KirenRijiju) June 8, 2025
This modern facility, initiated by Chief National Coach Vijay Sharma in September 2024, is designed to accommodate up to 60 athletes across 30 fully furnished rooms.
Currently, the academy hosts 40 young athletes aged between 8 and 14, along with 15 elite competitors. Rijiju took the opportunity to commend the academy's team, expressing his belief in its potential.
“I would like to congratulate the Weightlifting Warriors team on the opening of this residential center. I am not merely wishing you luck; I genuinely believe that a remarkable champion will emerge from here. Throughout my life, I have seen many academies, but the dedication with which Vijay runs this academy and the hard work put in to ensure its success is unparalleled,” he remarked, as per a press release from Weightlifting Warriors.
Mirabai Chanu, who trains at the academy, emphasized her dedication to guiding the next generation: “The 2036 Olympics is not just a dream for us; it is a commitment for our country. Young athletes, remember that when you train, you carry the dreams of 1.4 billion Indians with you.”
Vijay Sharma shared his aspirations for the academy, stating, “The dream I had of establishing an academy has come true today. With Mirabai’s guidance, these children can learn and excel in the upcoming Olympics.”
The academy is part of the Khelo India Scheme, receiving support from the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports, the Sports Authority of India, Olympic Gold Quest, and the Indian Weightlifting Federation (IWLF).