Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz visited Olympic gold medalist Arshad Nadeem in his hometown of Mian Channu on Tuesday, awarding him a cheque of Rs100 million in recognition of his historic achievement at the Paris Olympics.
Arshad made headlines last week by securing Pakistan’s first Olympic gold medal in 40 years with an impressive 92.97-meter javelin throw, setting a new record at the Games. This monumental win also marked Pakistan’s first-ever individual gold medal and its first track and field medal, making Arshad the second South Asian to reach the podium in this category.
Since his victory, Arshad has been celebrated nationwide, receiving a hero’s welcome upon his return to Mian Channu. The government has announced several honors for him, including the prestigious Hilal-i-Imtiaz award and cash prizes totaling over Rs155 million.
Our Hero #ArshadNadeem ⭐️ pic.twitter.com/YdW3A11OSH
— PMLN Digital (@PMLNDigital) August 13, 2024
CM Maryam Nawaz arrived in Mian Channu by helicopter to personally congratulate Arshad at his home, where she was warmly received by the athlete and his family. During her visit, she also spent time with Arshad’s mother, Razia Parveen.
According to an official statement, Maryam presented Arshad with the Rs100 million cheque she had previously announced, along with a brand-new Honda Civic car featuring a special registration number, PAK-92.97, symbolizing his record-breaking throw. She also awarded Arshad’s coach, Salman Iqbal Butt, a cheque for Rs5 million, acknowledging his crucial role in Arshad’s success.
“Arshad Nadeem has brought unparalleled joy to the nation,” Maryam expressed during the visit.
The chief minister was accompanied by senior Punjab officials, including Minister Marriyum Aurangzeb, Provincial Sports Minister Faisal Ayub Khokhar, Special Aide to the CM Zeeshan Malik, MPA Sania Ashiq, and former MPA Aamir Hayat Hiraj. Several top regional officials were also present.
In a social media post, Maryam shared a heartfelt moment with Arshad and his mother, captioning the photo, “The heights that parents’ prayers take a person to! Well done, Arshad Nadeem.”
ماں باپ کی دعا انسان کو کہاں پہنچا دیتی ہے ! ❤️ pic.twitter.com/QjMvX29SjA
— Maryam Nawaz Sharif (@MaryamNSharif) August 13, 2024
Separately, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif announced plans to host a dinner for Arshad and his family at the PM House. During a federal cabinet meeting, the Prime Minister once again praised Arshad for his incredible determination in overcoming numerous challenges to achieve his Olympic dream. He also acknowledged the support of Arshad’s parents and coach.
Additionally, the Athletics Federation of Pakistan (AFP) has announced that Arshad and his family will be gifted Umrah packages. They are expected to embark on the pilgrimage after the celebratory events conclude.
