CHANDIGARH, Jan 3: ``Receiving the prize money announced by legendary Milkha Singh for breaking his 400-metre record is important. However, his advice to me today is more valuable,'' feels Paramjit Singh. ``Hard work, discipline and character are are the basic ingredients of making a world-beater,'' went Milkha Singh's advise to a shy 28-year old Paramjit Singh who called on him along with his Sports Authority of India coach Harbans Singh at his residence tonight.``Meeting Milkha Singh was an inspiration. His advice has further infused new vigor in me to achieve higher goal - clocking below 45 seconds and gradually covering the one-lap race in below 44 till the end of this year,'' said an elated tall Hoshiarpur athlete. It was their first meeting. However, Milkha in a philosophical tone says ``I have been closely following you. I have watched you run on a number of occasions. I had noticed your fine strides, endurance and explosive speed,'' says Milkha Singh.``Now the 90 crore Indians are lookingtowards you for your new exploits in the track competitions in international races. Work hard, remain in discipline and follow the instructions of your coach strictly. Never shy away from labour,'' advises Milkha Singh who described Paramjit as the new `Indian Chirag.'The Chandigarh-based SAI coach described Paramjit's meeting with Milkha Singh as a `courtesy call.' ``We had been planning to call on Milkha Singh. However, due to some unavoidable circumstances our meeting has been delayed,'' says Harbans apologetically.Paramjit's coach requested Paramjit, who is working in Central Reserve Police Force, not to let down the inspirations and aspirations of his countrymen. Harbans Singh, who is attached with Paramjit Singh since 1995, is carefully planning Paramjit's training programme-cum-competition programme in foreign countries. The SAI coach is discussing the schedule with the Sports Authority of India, Amateur Athletic Federation of India and Government of India. ``Joining hands together will be morebeneficial. And Paramjit Singh is very keen to get better international competitions,'' informs Paramjit's coach.Harbans feels that the sponsors must now come forward to help Paramjit achieve new heights and that is only possible if his trainee is sent abroad. The new 400-metre India star praised his employers for extending him all facilities. ``I have been honoured by my department and my case for promotion as Deputy Superintendent of Police has been recommended.''Meanwhile, Milkha reiterated that he would give Rs one lakh to Paramjit Singh at a function to be organised by the AAFI. Another Rs one lakh would be given to Paramjit if he repeats his Calcutta National Open record where he created a new national record, in an international meet record abroad. The `Flying Sikh' has also announced a cash award of Rs 50,000 to Asian Games double gold medallist Jyotirmoyee Sikdar. ``I have already written a letter to AAFI president Suresh Kalmadi,'' discloses Milkha.
