Gill wants India to beat China at Olympics

“I told them my hope is that we beat you (Chinese) in all disciplines and claim all the gold medals,” he said to rapturous applause from the children assembled at India Gate.

He also exhorted the youth to emulate the feats of eminent athletes of yesteryears. “I see Milkha Singh and G S Randhawa as well as eminent tennis players on the dias. I want that some of you should break their records,” the Sports Minister said.

Indian Olympic Association President Suresh Kalmadi described the torch relay as a “great occasion” for Delhi. “We at the IOA are determined to keep the spirit of the Olympics and Olympic Torch intact,” he said. “Those athletes that have carried the torch today have done their duty towards the Olympics and their country.”

Kalmadi claimed many more people wanted to carry the torch but it was not possible to accommodate them. “We will try to accommodate them in the baton relay for the 2010 Commonwealth Games to be hosted by Delhi,” he said.

Describing the torch relay as an “exceptionally unique event”, IOA Secretary General Randhir Singh said the Olympics will not only showcase sporting excellence, but also provide an opportunity for the people of China and the rest of the world to learn about each other.

Li Zhi Jian, executive vice-chairman of the Beijing Organising Committee for the Olympic Games (BOCOG), complimented Delhi for the “excellent arrangement” and great enthusiasm for the relay.

The event took place under unprecedented security in the wake of protests by pro-Tibetan supporters after agitations blighted the rally in various other cities around the world.