Speaking to IANS, Arjun Bhati expressed his gratitude, saying, \u201cI am feeling very good. My family and I are very grateful. I am extremely happy and excited about this award. I would like to thank the Government of India for selecting me and considering me worthy of this honour.\u201d<\/p>\r\n\r\n
Reflecting on his journey, Bhati recalled a heartfelt moment during the COVID-19 pandemic when he sold 102 of his trophies to support the nation.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
\u201cI sold my 102 trophies during COVID-19 and raised Rs 4,30,000 which I donated to the PM CARES Fund. My aim was to serve the country. My grandmother even gave me her one-year pension to donate. That inspired me to contribute in any way I could, beyond just playing golf,\u201d he said.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
Bhati also highlighted the growing popularity of golf in India.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
\u201cGolf is gradually gaining popularity in our country. More people are picking up the sport. With Kapil Dev becoming the president of our tour and various initiatives by the Golf Federation of India, golf is on the rise. The world should recognise the talent India has to offer. Young people are getting encouraged, and if Indian players perform well internationally, it will showcase our potential globally,\u201d the young golfer said.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
Sharing insights into his journey, Bhati said, \u201cI played golf for the first time when I was 9 years old in school. Initially, my parents were not very supportive because golf wasn\u2019t as popular then. But when they saw my passion and dedication, they became my biggest supporters. I\u2019ve been playing for the past 10 years and turned professional three years ago. In 2023, I received an award from the Virat Kohli Foundation, which has been incredibly motivating. Meeting Virat Kohli at the Indian Sports Honour event in Mumbai in 2019 was inspiring. His dedication and fitness regimen encouraged me to push myself further.\u201d<\/p>\r\n\r\n
Bhati praised the Indian government\u2019s role in promoting sports, citing Neeraj Chopra\u2019s Olympic gold medal as a testament to the growing support for athletes.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
\u201cNeeraj Chopra\u2019s success is a reflection of the government\u2019s support. Over the past 7-8 years, the government has played a pivotal role in backing athletes. Various organisations and schemes are now in place to support young talent,\u201d he said.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
He also expressed his admiration for the Prime Minister\u2019s engagement with the youth.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
\u201cWhen any athlete meets the Prime Minister, it\u2019s a great honour. It inspires us. I felt incredibly encouraged when PM Modi tweeted about my donation during COVID-19. The Prime Minister\u2019s constant support for athletes is truly motivating.\u201d<\/p>\r\n\r\n
Bhati lauded the Fit India Movement for promoting fitness among the youth.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
\u201cThe Fit India Movement has created a wave of health consciousness, with more youngsters joining gyms and focussing on their fitness. The government\u2019s initiatives like the India Youth Mission are helping raise awareness and promote a healthier lifestyle,\u201d he said.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
Reflecting on the impact of government support, Bhati concluded, \u201cThe government\u2019s contribution in recent years has sparked interest in sports beyond cricket. Neeraj Chopra\u2019s victory inspired many to explore other sports like golf. Parents now feel more confident supporting their children\u2019s sporting aspirations, knowing that there is government backing. This support is vital for the growth of sports in India.\u201d<\/p>\r\n\r\n
\u201cThe Fit India Movement has created a wave of health consciousness, with more youngsters joining gyms and focussing on their fitness. The government\u2019s initiatives like the India Youth Mission are helping raise awareness and promote a healthier lifestyle,\u201d he said.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
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