Prime Minister Narendra Modi assured all possible help to the Indian contingent at the Rio Olympic Games 2016, scheduled to begin on August 5, the Prime Minister hoped that Indian sports persons will be able to win hearts of people from across the world when he flagged off the "Run for Rio" event in Delhi from Major Dhyanchand National Stadium near India Gate, where he made a strong pitch to promote sports in the country.

Modi said, "Previously, the government officials sent along with the team of athletes used to get paid more than the athletes. We have removed the disparity. Everybody will get same amount of money,". this time around, the Indian contingent will also get to eat 'desi' food if they so wish, the PM said. And, the squad is being sent inadvance of the Rio Olympics - that start August 5 - so that players become familiar with local conditions.

"Every player has worked hard to get here. The Centre will ensure that Indian athletes get Indian food according to their choice and requirement," the PM said. The PM gave a strong boost to the Indian Olympic contingent - at 119, the largest ever - and said that for these Games the government has spent as much as Rs 125 crore.