Congratulating the Indian contingent for the Paris 2024 Olympic Games, Shri Hardeep Singh Puri, Minister of Petroleum & Natural Gas, expressed his pride and optimism. “The Olympics represent the pinnacle of human achievement. To all the champion athletes here who have qualified for the 2024 edition, on behalf of 1.4 billion Indians, congratulations and the best of luck! We couldn’t be prouder,” he said.
Shri Puri made these remarks at a ceremonial send-off organized by the Indian Olympic Association (IOA) at the Ashoka Hotel in New Delhi. The event was also attended by Union Minister of Youth Affairs and Sports and Labour and Employment, Dr Mansukh Mandaviya, and Indian Olympic Association President, Dr P.T. Usha.
Reflecting on the evolution of expectations around India’s Olympic performance, Shri Puri noted that there was a time when the nation celebrated participation itself and hoped for a medal in hockey. “Now, expectations have soared due to our recent successes,” he remarked.
Shri Puri emphasized the crucial role played by Oil/Gas Public Sector Undertakings (PSUs) in supporting athletes. “Our culture promotes sportspersons while strengthening grassroots infrastructure. As the patron of various oil and gas PSUs, I am glad to see them facilitating the best possible preparation for our athletes,” he said. He highlighted that 12 athletes sponsored by Indian Oil and 5 by ONGC are participating in the Olympics, with BPCL alone supporting over 250 athletes.
He announced BPCL’s deepened partnership with the Indian Olympic Association, stating, “BPCL will be the Principal Partner of the Indian contingent at the Olympics, Asian Games, Commonwealth Games, and Para Olympics Games for the next four years up to the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics.”
At the ceremonial send-off, Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya, Shri Hardeep Singh Puri, and Dr. P.T. Usha unveiled three kits for the Indian team. These included the playing kit designed by JSW Inspire, the ceremonial dress by Tarun Tahiliani-owned TASVA, and performance shoes and travel gear by PUMA, showcased during a ramp-walk by the athletes.
