PM Modi motivates Indian athletes 'individually' ahead of Rio Olympics

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday met over 60 Indian athletes, who would be participating in the Rio Olympic Games, and encouraged them individually to perform to the best of their ability in the world's biggest sporting arena.

"Had the opportunity to meet the Indian contingent for the 2016 Olympics. Wished them the very best," tweeted Prime Minister Modi after meeting each athlete individually, besides interacting informally with the athletes.

"Spoke to @apurvichandela & conveyed my good wishes for the games. She is a women's 10m air rifle shooter.

"The determination of shooter @AyonikaPaul is appreciable. Talked to her about the Olympics & wished her the best.

"Manavjit Singh Sandhu impressed me with his shooting skills. Good luck for Rio.

"Manika Batra will take part in table tennis. Wishing her the very best.

"Good luck to you, @MoumaDasTT . I hope you play well at the 2016 Olympics.

"He's been there & done that before.@gaGunNarang is all set, once again for Rio. Wished him good luck.

"Saw a fighting spirit in shooter Gurpreet Singh & am sure he is going to give his best for the nation at the games.

"Over 100 Indian athletes from 13 different disciplines have qualified for the Rio Olympics.

"My best wishes PV Sindhu, as you embark on this important tournament. Am sure you will give your best!

"The boxing ring at Rio awaits the exceptional @shivathapa. Good luck my young friend.

"We know about the very talented Deepika Kumari. She participated in London 2012 & will again do so in Rio. Good luck," the Prime Minister said in a series of tweets.

Over 100 Indian athletes from 13 different disciplines have qualified for the Rio Olympics.

Several former Olympians, including MC Mary Kom, Anju Bobby George and P. Gopichand were among those present at the gathering.

The Union Minister of State for Youth Affairs and Sports Dr. Jitendra Singh was also present on the occasion.