In a significant meeting that underscores the nation's growing sporting ambitions, President Droupadi Murmu recently hosted a high-profile delegation from the boxing fraternity at Rashtrapati Bhavan in New Delhi. The group, led by the organising committee chairman for the Boxing World Cup Final, Rajesh Bhardwaj, included top officials and medal-winning athletes who have brought glory to India on the global stage.
Delegation of Champions Meets the President
The delegation was notably accompanied by BFI president and SpiceJet chairman Ajay Singh, along with BFI general secretary Pramod Kumar. Adding star power to the visit was Padma Shri awardee and 2012 Beijing Olympic bronze medalist Vijender Singh. The core of the delegation, however, was formed by four exceptional women boxers who have recently clinched medals at prestigious international competitions, earning widespread acclaim for the country.
During the cordial interaction, President Murmu warmly praised the remarkable achievements of these athletes. She encouraged them to aim for even greater heights in their careers, emphasizing that winning a gold medal would not only bring them personal recognition but would also significantly enhance India's prestige on the world sports map. Expressing strong confidence in their abilities, the President stated her belief that these athletes are poised to continue bringing glory to the nation in the coming years.
Rising Stars of Indian Boxing Shine
The meeting served as a platform to showcase the new generation of Indian boxing talent. The delegation included rising stars who have delivered outstanding performances internationally. Minakshi and Jasmine, both gold medalists at the Liverpool World Boxing Championship and the Greater Noida World Boxing Cup Finals, were present.
They were joined by Nupur, who secured a silver at the World Boxing Championship and a gold at the World Boxing Cup Finals, and Pooja Rani, a bronze medalist at the World Boxing Championship and silver medalist at the World Boxing Cup Finals. President Murmu highly appreciated the courage, discipline, and stellar achievements of these young sportswomen, describing them as the genuine pride of the nation.
Charting the Future Path for Indian Boxing
On this special occasion, all members of the delegation shared their insights and experiences concerning the development of boxing in India. The discussions covered crucial topics like the requirements of players, infrastructure needs, and future plans for the sport's growth. Rajesh Bhardwaj, chairman of the organising committee for the Boxing World Cup Final, found the experience deeply inspiring.
He stated that the meeting motivates him to redouble efforts not just towards world-class event organisation and structural development, but also to remain steadfastly committed to improving training protocols, nutrition, resources, and international exposure for athletes. According to Bhardwaj, this interaction with the President strengthened his conviction that India possesses the inherent capability to reach the pinnacle of global sports, and this ambitious goal is undoubtedly achievable through sustained, collective efforts in the right direction.
The gathering at the Rashtrapati Bhavan marks a moment of recognition and encouragement for Indian boxing, highlighting the government's support and the bright future that lies ahead for the sport and its champions.