SPORT-LD SINDHU 2 LAST

Gopichand thanked the Telangana government for its Gopichand thanked the Telangana government for itssupport and for announcing rewards. Praising the two Indian medal winners at Rio, he said,"Hats off to the women (Sindhu and grappler Sakshi Malik) foractually saving the respect of India in front of the wholeworld." "It’s huge support from the government and also forfinancial rewards. It is unprecedented. I am sure this willinspire and help in preparing lot of champions and lot moresportspersons," Gopichand said. Rama Rao told Sindhu’s parents that they should be proudof her as she has now become "daughter of India", andannounced that the government would come out with a new sportspolicy after holding consultations with Gopichand and otherArjun awardees. There is a need to prepare a comprehensive plan forfuture Olympics, the minister said. Speakers at the event praised the efforts and sacrificesmade by Sindhu’s coach and her parents for her success at theinternational level. The Telangana government had earlier announced Rs fivecrore cash reward for the 21-year-old, a 1,000 square yardhousing site near the Pullela Gopichand Badminton Academy inGachibowli and suitable government job, if she is willing, anda cash prize of Rs one crore for Gopichand. PTI VVK RS GK ATKATK