Sports Minister Anurag Singh Thakur today inaugurated the Asian Youth and Junior Weightlifting Championships 2023 in Greater Noida. The event is being held in India for the first time. The international event will see the participation of more than 30 Indian weightlifters, including many Khelo India Athletes who in the past month alone gave India its best-ever performance at the Weightlifting Commonwealth Championships by winning 61 medals in total.
 
In his address, Mr Thakur expressed happiness that India is hosting this prestigious event where more than 15 nations from the Asian region, 200 athletes, and more than 50 technical staff and coaches are participating. He said, events like these are the bedrock for future sporting successes. He conveyed best wishes to all the athletes participating in this event.

The Minister also spoke about the achievements of various iconic Indian weightlifters such as Karnam Malleshwari, and Mirabai Chanu who inspire younger athletes to compete with more power. He also congratulated the new crop of athletes like Martina Devi, Harshada Garud, and Dhanush Loganathan who in the past have won multiple Khelo India Games medals and other medals at the highest level.
 
The Asian Youth and Junior Weightlifting Championships will begin tomorrow and will conclude on the 5th of August.