Young Wrestling Stars Honored: U-17 Champions Tour India's Parliament

In a proud moment for Indian sports, medal winners from the Under-17 Wrestling World Championships recently toured the Parliament House in New Delhi, receiving heartfelt congratulations from top officials for their international triumphs. The visit underscores the growing support for youth athletics in India, as the nation aims to nurture the next generation of Olympic hopefuls.

Ashvini Vishnoi and Komal Verma, both hailing from Rajasthan, were the stars of the show during their Thursday excursion on August 7, 2025. They met Sports Minister Mansukh Mandaviya and Minister of State for Sports Raksha Khadse, who praised their dedication and success at the championships held in Athens, Greece. The young grapplers also interacted with Maharashtra Assembly Speaker Rahul Narvekar and Lok Sabha member Jagdambika Pal, sharing stories of their rigorous training and competitive journeys.

Vishnoi, from Bhilwara, clinched the gold medal in the 65 kg freestyle category, showcasing exceptional technique and resilience against global competitors. Verma, from Sikar, secured a bronze in the 49 kg freestyle, adding to India's medal tally in a fiercely contested event. Another promising athlete, Kashish Gurjar from Bhilwara, advanced to the quarter-finals in the 46 kg freestyle, demonstrating potential for future accolades.

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The Under-17 World Championships, organized by United World Wrestling, took place from July 29 to August 4, 2025, in Athens, drawing young talents from over 50 countries. India fielded a strong contingent, with these Rajasthan wrestlers contributing significantly to the team's performance. Their achievements come amid India's rising prominence in wrestling, bolstered by stars like Vinesh Phogat and Bajrang Punia, who have inspired a new wave of athletes.

Rajasthan Wrestling Association President Rajeev Dutta emphasized the organization's commitment, stating that it covered all expenses for training, accommodation, and nutrition to support these rising stars. "Our goal is to equip young talents with every resource needed to shine globally," Dutta noted, highlighting initiatives like specialized coaching camps and international exposure trips.

This parliamentary recognition not only boosts the morale of these athletes but also signals increased government investment in sports infrastructure. With programs like Khelo India gaining momentum, experts predict more such success stories, potentially leading to stronger showings at senior levels, including the 2028 Olympics.

As investigations into further support mechanisms continue, the wrestling community celebrates these victories, hoping they pave the way for sustained excellence in the sport.

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