Minister for Railways Ashwini Vaishnaw on Monday felicitated weightlifter Mirabai Chanu who won a silver medal in the Tokyo Olympics, and announced a reward of Rs 2 crore and a promotion in her job in the Northeast Frontier Railway.
The minister said she has inspired billions around the world with her talent, handwork and grit. “It was great to meet and congratulate the pride of India and honour of Indian Rly, @mirabai_chanu. Also felicitated her & announced Rs. 2 Cr , a promotion and more. She has inspired billions around the world with her talent, handwork and grit. Keep winning for India!” Vaishnaw tweeted.
Chanu, who returned to the country on Monday evening, lifted a total of 202kg (87kg+115kg) in the 49kg category to better Karnam Malleswari’s bronze in the 2000 Sydney Olympics on Saturday. Chanu, hailing from Manipur, was promoted as an Officer on Special Duty (Sports) in the Northeast Frontier Railway in April, 2018.
Also, Solar and LED lights manufacturers Protonix Fortuner India private limited on Saturday announced a cash prize worth Rs 1 lakh for Mirabai Chanu. Referring to her victory and the cash prize, Protonix Fortuner’s co-founders Anil Bhushan and Ashish Choudhary said, “It is always a great feeling to see Indian athletes and sportpersons bringing glory to the country at global sporting events. Tokyo Olympics was the most awaited international event since the outbreak of the pandemic and there can be no better start to it than an Indian winning a medal.”
(With inputs from agencies)