NEW DELHI: In a landmark event for Indian weightlifting and the nation’s Olympic aspirations, Union Minister of Parliamentary Affairs and Minority Affairs, Shri Kiren Rijiju, inaugurated the residential wing of the Weightlifting Warriors Academy on Saturday. The academy, famously known as the training ground of Olympic Silver Medalist Mirabai Chanu, now marks a significant milestone in India’s preparations for the 2036 Olympics.
State-of-the-Art Facility to House 60 Athletes
The newly launched residential facility, established under the visionary leadership of Chief National Coach Shri Vijay Sharma in September 2024, is designed to accommodate up to 60 athletes across 30 fully equipped rooms. Currently, the academy is home to 40 promising young athletes aged between 8 and 14 years, alongside 15 elite weightlifters, all rigorously training to elevate India’s stature in international weightlifting.
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Kiren Rijiju Applauds Academy’s Dedication and Vision
Addressing the gathering, Kiren Rijiju congratulated the academy’s team for this significant achievement and expressed his unwavering confidence in the institution’s potential to nurture future champions.
“I would like to congratulate the team at Weightlifting Warriors on opening this residential centre. I am not just wishing you all good luck, but I have faith that a great champion will emerge from here,” said the minister. He further praised Chief Coach Vijay Sharma’s dedication, stating, “I have seen many academies in my life, but the way Mr. Vijay has run this academy with dedication, and the hard work they put in to make it successful, I have never seen that anywhere else.”
Mirabai Chanu Inspires the Next Generation
Olympic Silver Medalist Mirabai Chanu, who has been training at the academy, reaffirmed her commitment to nurturing the next generation of weightlifting talent. She motivated the young athletes with a powerful message:
“The 2036 Olympics is not just a dream for us; it is a commitment for our country. My young athletes, remember that when you train, you carry the dreams of 1.4 billion Indians with you.”
Vision of Chief Coach Vijay Sharma
Shri Vijay Sharma, the founder and Chief National Coach of the academy, shared his vision behind the establishment.
“The dream I had of an academy has come true today. With Mirabai’s training and guidance, these kids can learn, grow, and perform well in the upcoming Olympics,” he said, emphasizing the academy’s mission to produce world-class athletes.
Comprehensive Support Under Khelo India Scheme
The Weightlifting Warriors Academy operates under the Khelo India Scheme, with strong support from the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports, the Sports Authority of India, Olympic Gold Quest, and the Indian Weightlifting Federation (IWLF). The academy boasts world-class training facilities, including a modern gymnasium, dedicated recovery zones equipped with steam rooms, sauna, and ice bath facilities. The support staff comprises seven expert coaches, three physiotherapists, and two certified masseurs to ensure holistic athlete development.
This residential wing inauguration signals a critical step in India’s ambition to build a sustainable pipeline of elite weightlifters and shine on the global stage, especially at the 2036 Olympic Games. With a blend of world-class infrastructure, expert coaching, and inspirational leadership, the Weightlifting Warriors Academy is poised to become a beacon of India’s sporting excellence.
