Kiren Rijiju expects double digit medal haul in Tokyo Olympics

Sports Minister said the govt has provided all possible support to the athletes in preparation for the Olympics, and it is now their job to make the Games a "memorable" one for India

New Delhi: Sports Minister Kiren Rijiju is expecting an unprecedented double digit medal haul from the Indian athletes in the upcoming Tokyo Olympics.

On Wednesday, Rijiju said the government has provided all possible support to the country’s athletes in preparation for the Olympics, and it is now their job to make the Games a “memorable” one for India.

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“We want to make this Olympics very, very memorable and it is the athletes who would ensure that the Tokyo Olympics becomes one of the most cherished Olympics for India. From ministry’s end we have tried to provide everything required for Olympic-bound athletes and athletes who are participating in qualifying events. Our priority was to fulfil all needs of our athletes,” the minister said.

He was speaking during a virtual webinar organised to mark the 100 days countdown to the Tokyo Games, which is scheduled to begin on July 23.

“We ensured that there is no shortcomings or shortages of any sort for athletes representing India in Tokyo Olympics. But we will have to set a record in Tokyo Olympics. India must cross double digit.

“We are doing everything for you, you just bring home double digit medal haul. We will give everything you want but there shouldn’t be any lacking in efforts from your side,” he said in his message to the sportspersons who will represent India in the quadrennial extravaganza.