NEW DELHI: Minister for Railways Ashwini Vaishnaw felicitated weightlifter Mirabai Chanu on Monday for winning a Silver medal in the Tokyo Olympics, and announced a reward of ₹ 2 crores and promotion in the Northeast Frontier Railway.
Ms Chanu has inspired billions around the world with her talent, handwork, and grit, the minister said.
"It was great to meet and congratulate the pride of India and honour of Indian Rly, @mirabai_chanu. Also felicitated her & announced ₹ 2 Cr, a promotion and more. She has inspired billions around the world with her talent, handwork and grit. Keep winning for India!" Mr Vaishnaw tweeted.
Mirabai Chanu, who returned to India Monday evening, lifted a total of 202kg (87kg+115kg) in the 49kg category on Saturday to better Karnam Malleswari's bronze in the 2000 Sydney Olympics.
Mirabai was greeted at the Indira Gandhi International Airport, surrounded by security forces. The 26-year-old, with a face shield and mask on her face, was felicitated by the Sports Authority of India (SAI) officials.
"Happy to be back here in amidst so much love and support. Thank you so much [emoticon: India flag]," Mirabai tweeted after landing. The Manipuri weightlifter lifted a total of 202kg (87kg in snatch and 115kg in clean and jerk) in the 49 kg category, finishing behind China's Hou Zhihui on Saturday.
Mirabai became the second medallist from India in weightlifting, bettering Karnam Malleswari's bronze in the 69 kg category at the 2000 Sydney Olympics.
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