Imphal: Chief Minister N Biren on Friday spoke to Pukhrambam Sushila, the former Indian women hockey Captain who played some of the best game in the Tokyo Olympics.
Sushila poured out her agony on losing the match and failing to bring a medal for the country. Biren consoled her and praised the efforts made by the team in the Olympics.
Biren who came back from New Delhi called up Sushila and consoled her and appreciated the entire Hockey contingent. He also informed Sushila that the Rajiv Gandhi Khel Ratna award will be renamed after Hockey Legent Dhyan Chand.
Biren assured to give Rs 25 lakhs and a suitable job in Manipur.
A reception function will be organized in Manipur for all the five participants from Manipur. Saikhom Mirabai got silver in weight lifting and Nilakanta got bronze in men’s hockey.
Sushila said Manipur produced lots of hockey players but they all go away hence there is need for the players to come to Manipur and groom new talents. Mary Kom ( boxing), Likmabam Sushila (judo) could not get any medal inspite of their performances.
Biren said the government will discuss about the appropriate jobs that can be given to the Olympians.
Hockey India President Ningombam Gyandendro congratulated the Indian Men’s and women’s Hockey Team for their performances and recreating the glorious history of Indian Hockey.
The men’s team ended the 41 years of medal dearth in the biggest world sports event. It’s a moment of celebration for the country and for Manipur, he said.
He congratulated and extended his heartiest gratitude to all players, officials of Team India, all members of Hockey India, on such feat on behalf of the nation.
