Other states should follow Haryana model: Saina Nehwal

Gohana (Harayana): Olympic bronze medallist Saina Nehwal lavished praise on Haryana government for their effort in supporting international sportspersons and she is confident that India can win atleast 25 medals by next Olympics if other states start pulling in smilar fashion.

"Haryana government provided great facilities to its athletes to prepare for the London Olympics. If other states can follow Haryana`s footsteps, I think we can win 25 to 30 medals at Rio in 2016," Saina said on the sidelines of a function organised by Haryana government for their Olympians. The state government had promised Rs 2.5 crore each for gold medal winner, Rs 1.5 crore for silver and Rs 1 crore for bronze medal winner at the London Games. Over 10,000 people were present at the function. "It feels great to be honoured in front of my own people. I would like to thank the state government for this. I will try to bring more glory for the country," a jubiliant Yogeshwar said. Real estate company DLF Ltd presented cars to all 19 athletes from the state. London medal winners - Saina Nehwal, Yogeshwar Dutt, Sushil Kumar and Gagan Narang received a swanky Audi Q5 car each from the company. While rest were given Maruti SX4 by the Vice Chairman Rajiv Singh. PTI