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Xtra Time Web Desk: Prime Minister Narendra Modi had words of encouragement for Rani Rampal and her team on Friday. The Indian women’s hockey team put up a courageous display throughout the tournament at Tokyo Olympics. They missed the bronze by losing 3-4 to Great Britain. In a call to the team and the coach from India, PM Modi congratulated each and every member of the Indian women’s team for putting up an inspiring performance.

"Your sweat has become the inspiration for crores of women in the country. I congratulate all the players and the coach," PM Modi said on speaker as the team gathered around the phone, most of them in tears.

Indian women’s team captain thanked the Prime Minister on behalf of the team for the encouragement.

The Prime Minister asked the girls to stop crying and told them not to be disheartened.

"Stop crying, I can hear you cry. The country is proud of you, don't be disheartened. After so many decades, hockey, which is India's identity, is again getting prominence for your hardwork," PM Modi said.

The Prime Minister also had words of encouragement for coach Sjoerd Marijne who on Friday decided to quit from his post.

"You have tried your level best. You have encouraged the girls. Wish you all the best for the future," he said. Coach Marijne thanked the Prime Minister and added that the girls were very emotional after the loss.

"I also told the girls that they inspire the nation and that is very important and they must cherish that. Thank you, sir. Namaste," Marjine said towards the end of the call.