Biswajit joins Mirabai's family in celebrating success

By Our Staff Reporter
IMPHAL, Jul 24 : Following Mirabai's glory at the Tokyo Games, Works Minister Thongam Bishwajit visited her residence at Nongpok Kakching, under Lamlai AC in Imphal East district and joined family members of the Olympic medallist in celebrating the success.
It may be noted that Mirabai born to Saikhom Kriti and Saikhom ongbi Tombi Devi of Ibudhou Lai Khamlangba Maning-Nongpok Kakching, opened up India's medal tally by winning a silver medal in the women's 49 kg weightlifting event of the Tokyo Games with a total lift of 202 kg today.
The Minister also shared sweets with the family members and others gathered at the occasion and had a lively interaction with them.
Speaking on the sidelines, the Works Minister stated that the visit was paid on behalf of the State Government and the BJP Manipur Pradesh.
He said that he was extremely elated with Mirabai striking the silver medal though she missed the gold. Her success story at the world's most prestigious sporting event has redefined the quality, grit and determination of a Manipuri 'Chanura/woman' and he was really proud of it, said the Minister.
The Minister further stated that her feat at the Tokyo Games has yet again attracted adulation from all in the country and raised a new bar for the State athletes. The silver medal winning feat of Mirabai will be an unforgettable moment not only for Manipuris but for the whole Nation, he said.
The visit was specially organised to join the celebration and happiness with the family members, near and dear ones of the athletes during such a joyous occasion, he said.
Almost all State athletes belong to humble backgrounds and the success story of Mirabai will surely inspire and motivate them to follow suit in the near future, he continued.
Mention may be made that Mirabai, 26, holds a graduate degree in Arts and was appointed as a Sr Ticket Collector under Lumding Division/Northeast Frontier Railway in 2015. Since April 2018, Mirabai who is the youngest of 6 siblings (2 brothers and 4 sisters), has been an Officer on Special Duty (OSD) under Principal Chief Personnel Officer (PCPO). The exceptionally talented young athlete was conferred Rajiv Gandhi Khel Ratna and Padma Shree award both in the year 2018 after becoming world champion at the World Weightlifting Championship held at Anaheim, USA in 2017.