feat an inspiration for youngsters: Sachin Tendulkar

The country’s social media lit up on Monday with congratulatory messages and wishes for Dipa Karmakar. Cricket legend Sachin Tendulkar and sports minister Sarbananda Sonowal were among those leading the praise.

Tendulkar said her achievement would inspire the youth of the country.

“Congratulations #DipaKarmakar on creating history with your qualification. You inspire young Indians with your achievement. Best wishes,” Tendulkar tweeted.

Within hours of her qualification in artistic gymnastics for the Rio de Janeiro Olympics at a qualifying event at the Brazilian city, Dipa’s entitlement under the Target Olympic Podium Scheme, the government’s initiative to fund Olympic medal prospects in their preparations for the Games, was enhanced from earlier '20 lakh to '30 lakhs.

Dipa has been among the first lot of athletes who have been named under the TOP Scheme last year.

Sonowal congratulated Dipa for her feat and for taking Indian gymnastics to a high.

“Many congratulations for taking Indian gymnastics to a new high. Dipa Karmakar, we are so proud of you,” Sonowal wrote on his official Twitter handle.