CWG to project India as sporting nation: Speaker

NEW DELHI: Lok Sabha Speaker Meria Kumar today said that the just-concluded Commonwealth Games will act as a catalyst in projecting India as a sporting nation and motivate the youth to participate in sports events.

"The Games will act as a catalyst in projecting India as a sporting nation and motive youth, particularly from small villages and towns, to come out and participate in sporting events," she said in the House.

Kumar said, "It is a matter of great pride to observe that a majority of victorious sportspersons are from a rural background. Women sportspersons too have proved their mettle in these Games by excelling in various disciplines," she said.

The Speaker lauded the Indian contingent for winning and "unprecedented" 101 medals in the event.

"I, on behalf of the House, congratulate all sportsmen and sportswomen who have won medals for their country. I also congratulate all sportspersons who participated in the Games in the true spirit of sportsmanship and friendship," she said.