New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday congratulated India’s young athletes for delivering the nation’s best-ever performance at the Asian Youth Games 2025, held in Manama, Bahrain, where India secured a total of 48 medals, including 13 gold, 18 silver, and 17 bronze.
India achieves historic sixth-place finish
With their stellar showing, Indian athletes finished sixth overall in the continental event, marking a new milestone in the country’s youth sports journey. The achievement reflects India’s growing depth in sports beyond cricket, as young athletes excelled across disciplines including athletics, shooting, swimming, badminton, and wrestling.
Prime Minister Modi, in a post on social media platform X, praised the athletes for their determination and dedication, writing:
“Our young athletes have scripted history at the Asian Youth Games 2025 with their best-ever performance, winning an impressive 48 medals.”
PM lauds coaches and families
The Prime Minister also acknowledged the crucial role of coaches, support staff, and families in shaping the champions of tomorrow. “Their hard work and guidance continue to inspire the youth of India to aim higher and dream bigger,” he added.
Sports Minister Anurag Thakur echoed the sentiment, calling the results a testament to the government’s investment in grassroots and youth development through initiatives such as the Khelo India programme.
India’s rise in youth sports
India’s 2025 campaign surpassed its previous best performance at the Asian Youth Games, signalling strong prospects for the country’s future in international sporting events, including the upcoming Asian Games 2026 and Olympics 2028.
Sports analysts noted that India’s success in Bahrain showcases not only emerging talent but also improved infrastructure and training systems that are helping young athletes compete with the best in Asia.
The government and sports federations are now expected to build on this success to ensure continued progress in youth and grassroots sports.