Overview

• Harshvardhan Sahu, a 16-year-old from Odisha, won gold in the 49 kg weightlifting category at the Khelo India Youth Games-2025 held in Bihar.
• Sahu set new national records by lifting a total of 203 kg—88 kg in snatch and 115 kg in clean and jerk—surpassing the previous record of 202 kg.
• Prime Minister Narendra Modi praised Sahu during his 'Mann Ki Baat' broadcast, highlighting his achievements alongside other standout athletes.
• Sahu, currently training at the Netaji Subhas National Institute of Sports in Patiala, expressed gratitude for the recognition, calling it a pivotal moment in his career.
• Odisha state officials and local leaders thanked the Prime Minister, noting the encouragement his mention provides to young athletes in the region.