India rapidly emerging as a global sporting power, says Raghunandan Rao

M Raghunandan Rao, Telangana Gymnastics Association president and Medak MP, said that India is rapidly emerging as a strong sporting nation and encouraged youngsters to participate in sports in a big way.

Raghunandan Rao attended the fourth day of the Asian Senior Fencing Championships 2026 being held at Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi, as the chief guest.

Addressing the gathering, the MP highlighted that over the last decade, Prime Minister Narendra Modi has spearheaded a sporting revolution through flagship initiatives such as Khelo India, Fit India, and Khelo Sansad Utsav. These programmes have significantly strengthened India’s sporting ecosystem, enhanced infrastructure, and encouraged greater youth participation in sports across the country.

Expressing his delight at India hosting the prestigious Asian Senior Fencing Championships, Raghunandan Rao noted that the event has brought together more than 400 athletes from 33 countries. He emphasized that Indian fencers are competing alongside Olympians and some of Asia’s finest fencing stars, providing invaluable international exposure and competitive experience.

He also congratulated Rajeev Mehta, secretary general of the Fencing Association of India, along with the organizing committee, officials, volunteers, and support staff for successfully conducting the championship at an international standard.

The Asian Senior Fencing Championships 2026 commenced on June 19 and will conclude on June 24.