PM hails Sushil Kumar; railways rewards him Rs.75 lakh

New Delhi, Aug 12 (IANS) Prime Minister Manmohan Singh and Lok Sabha Speaker Meira Kumar Sunday congratulated wrestler Sushil Kumar for winning a silver medal at the London Olympics and hoped that his feat will motivate a new generation of sportspersons.

The railways announced a cash award of Rs.75 lakh for the medal winner.

In his congratulatory message, the prime minister said: "By improving his performance during the London Olympics over the Beijing Games, he (Sushil Kumar) has proved his determination and sheer tenacity."

In her message, Meira Kumar said Sushil Kumar's achievement reflected his "hard work, determination, and focus" and hoped it will inspire youth to excel in sports.

Railway Minister Mukul Roy said that Sushil Kumar had brought glory to the nation and had done the railways proud. He announced an award of Rs.75 lakh for the wrestler who works in the Northern Railway.

Sushil Kumar Sunday became the first individual athlete from India to win back-to-back medals at the Olympics after getting silver in the men's 66kg freestyle event. He had won a bronze at the Beijing Olympics.