The athletes and sportspersons expressed their gratitude to Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, hailing his sports policy as a “game-changer”.

Acknowledging the transformation in Uttar Pradesh’s sports landscape since CM Yogi took office in 2017, athletes said that when they compete with dedication, the Yogi government rewards them with respect, recognition, and awards, serving as powerful motivation. They highlighted that the chief minister’s public acknowledgment of athletes on stage instills a heightened sense of responsibility to excel.

“As I can recall, we earned a medal at the 2016 Paralympics as well, but we did not receive similar respect at that time. However, after winning two medals in the 2020 Paralympics, we felt a marked difference in recognition. The respect was also given for our achievements at the Asian Games. The respect athletes are experiencing in 2024 is now visible to everyone,”  said Praveen Kumar, who won gold medal at the Paralympic Games-2024.

He added: “Under Chief Minister Yogi, significant progress is being made in sports in Uttar Pradesh, with numerous positive changes taking place. The Yogi government has not only implemented a comprehensive sports policy but is also actively encouraging athletes.”

Echoing similar sentiments, Rajkumar Pal, who won a bronze medal in hockey, remarked: “Uttar Pradesh’s sports policy is highly commendable and has been a great source of motivation for athletes. In the past, medal-winning players did not receive as much support, but under the leadership of Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, the state government has made significant strides in uplifting sports and athletes.  The development of stadiums in both urban and rural areas will nurture emerging talents by offering them the facilities they need to excel.”

Lalit Kumar Upadhyay, bronze medalist in hockey, said: “Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath personally invited the athletes on stage to honour them and awarded substantial prize money. This recognition in their home state not only instils a sense of pride in athletes, but also bestows on them the responsibility to perform even better. The awards, recognition, and prize money provided by the state government not only contribute to a successful career but also help athletes establish a distinct identity.”

He added, “Stadiums are now being constructed in every district, providing crucial infrastructure for sports development. As a sports enthusiast, Yogi Adityanath is actively supporting athletes, which has become a significant boon for us.”

Deepesh Kumar, a Paralympic Games-2024 participant, stated: “We extend our heartfelt gratitude to the Yogi government for honouring athletes, especially those with disabilities. Such recognition is significant, as it is not common elsewhere. In addition to honour, athletes are also receiving financial incentives.”

Yash Kumar, a Paralympic Games-2024 participant,  said: “We are deeply grateful to Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath for meeting with us despite his busy schedule. His gesture of taking a selfie with us is truly heartwarming. After honouring us following the Para Asian Games, and now again after the Paralympic Games, his continued support is truly appreciated.”