New Delhi [India], July 26 (ANI): Union Railways Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw on Monday felicitated India's first medal winner at the Tokyo Olympics Saikhom Mirabai Chanu and announced a reward of Rs 2 crore and a promotion in her job in the Railways.
"Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw felicitates Olympic silver medallist and Indian Railways' weightlifter, Mirabai Chanu. The Minister announces cash award of Rs 2 Cr and promotion for her splendid performance at Tokyo Olympics 2020," tweeted the official account of the Ministry of Railways.
Congratulating the Olympics medalist for her splendid performance, Railway Minister Vaishnaw said Chanu 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 Railways, Mirabai Chanu. Also felicitated her and 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!" tweeted the Minister.
Earlier on Monday, the Union Minister of Youth Affairs and Sports Anurag Thakur also felicitated Chanu.
Union Minister for Law and Justice Minister Kiren Rijiju and Union Minister for Tourism, Culture and Development of North-Eastern region Kishan Reddy, Union Minister of Ports, Shipping and Waterways and Minister for AYUSH, Sarbananda Sonowal and Minister of State for Youth Affairs and Sports, Nisith Pramanik were also present.
Indian weightlifter Mirabai Chanu and her coach Vijay Sharma on Monday returned to India after a brilliant performance in the ongoing Tokyo Olympics. Chanu received a warm welcome as the staff at the Delhi airport cheered for her upon her arrival.
This was the first time Chanu, who won a silver medal in women's 49 kg weightlifting had come to India, after flying out to the USA on May 1 for a stint with renowned strength and conditioning coach Dr Aaron Horschig.
The government had swiftly arranged for Chanu to fly out at short notice with a travel ban to the USA for people coming from India set to be imposed within a few days due to the surge in Covid-19 cases. (ANI)