PT Usha takes oath as Rajya Sabha MP

 Renowned former Olympic track and field athlete PT Usha took oath or affirmation of allegiance to the Constitution as Rajya Sabha member on Wednesday.

The government nominated Usha and three other members to the Rajya Sabha on July 6. Usha was unable to attend parliament on Monday for oath taking.

Popularly known as the Payyoli Express, Usha has been one of the most iconic sportsperson India has ever had.

She has been associated with Indian athletics since she was just 15 years old. In later years, she went on to win medals at various international sporting events for India.

Usha won her first international gold in the 400 meter at the 1983 Asian Championships in Kuwait. In 1986 Seoul Asian Games, she went on to win four gold medals ( 200m, 400m, 400m Hurdle and 4x400m relay).

“Elated by the wonderful wishes from all over India! Your support and faith in me will go a long way in shaping my journey forward from here. Ek Bharat Shrestha Bharat,” Usha tweeted after being nominated.

Usha also said that she will always give her best to any responsibility bestowed upon her and work towards the betterment of all Indians.

She was awarded the Padma Shri in 1985. She also received honorary doctorates from the Kannur University in 2000, IIT Kanpur in 2017 and University of Calicut in 2018.