I envy today's athletes because I was in wrong era: Anju Bobby George praises PM Modi

India's first ever World Athletics Championship medallist Anju Bobby George says that she competed "in wrong era", praising Prime Minister Narendra Modi's eagerness for promoting and transforming sports in country.

Speaking at a programme organised at PM's residence on Christmas, legendary long jumper said: "As a sportsperson, I was here for almost 25 years and I'm seeing a lot of changes. When I got India's first global medal 20 years ago, even my department was not rey to give me a promotion.

"But after Neeraj (Chopra) got a medal, I have seen changes… way we are celebrating... I envy m because I was in wrong era," Anju said during event.

Anju, who won a bronze medal in women's long jump at 2003 World Championships in Athletics in Paris, spoke about women empowerment and also how country now also celebrates athletes' accomplishments.

"Women empowerment is not just a word now. Every Indian girl is rey to dream and y know ir dreams will come true," she said.

PM interacted with Christian community on occasion of Christmas, and Anju was among prominent persons who attended event.

"I think in near future, we will be at top (of sports world)," she said.

Among her or achievements, Anju bagged a gold medal at 2003 Afro-Asian Games and achieved her personal best of 6.83m at 2004 Olympic Games in Ans, which brought her fifth position.

She was awarded Arjuna Award in 2002, Khel Ratna in 2003 and Pma Shri, fourth-highest civilian award, in 2004.