Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday highlighted the power of the tricolour on the world stage by referring to how it helped to evacuate not only Indians but also people of other countries from the war zone in Ukraine.
Addressing the medal winners of the Commonwealth 2022 games at his official residence, PM Modi said, "What is the power of the tricolour, we have seen this in Ukraine some time ago. The tricolour had become a protective shield not only for Indians but also for people of other countries, in coming out of the battlefield."
Prime Minister's observation comes on the day when the 'Har Ghar Tiranga' campaign was started under the aegis of Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav to encourage people to bring the Tiranga home and to hoist it to mark the 75th year of India's independence.
Over 18,500 Indian nationals were evacuated from Ukraine as a result of New Delhi's efforts.
Emphasising that it was no less than a "golden era" for sports, the Prime Minister congratulated the players and coaches for their stupendous performance at the Commonwealth Games where India bagged 22 gold, 16 silver and 23 bronze medals in various disciplines.
Expressing immense pride in the accomplishments of Indian athletes, he said that the country is entering into the 'Azadi ka Amrit Kaal' with an inspiring achievement.
PM Modi highlighted that in the last few weeks, the country has accomplished two major achievements in the field of sports. Along with the historic performance in the Commonwealth Games, the country has organized the Chess Olympiad for the first time.
He said that the athletes have strengthened the resolve of 'Ek Bharat Shreshta Bharat' not just by gifting a medal to the country, but also by giving the opportunity to celebrate and to be proud.
"You weave the country in unity of thought and goal that was also one the great strength of our freedom struggle," said PM Modi.
PM Modi further said, "Be it boxing, judo or wrestling, the way our daughters have dominated is amazing. This time we have created a new way of winning in four new games as compared to last time. From lawn bowls to athletics, there has been phenomenal performance. With this performance, the interest of youth towards new sports in the country is going to increase a lot."
