India's only individual Olympic gold medallist Abhinav Bindra asked the politicians on Friday to change their attitude towards sports by their sincere participation in the promotion of games in the country.

"Politicians should change their attitude towards sports by ensuring their sincere participation in the promotion of games in the country," Bindra told reporters after arriving in Bhopal to a tumultuous welcome.

The 'Golden Boy' was in the city to distribute Madhya Pradesh Government's sports awards on the invitation of the Department of Sports and Youth Welfare.

Citing example of keen participation of politicians in sports in United States, he said, "In US, politicians not only take keen interest in sports but also keeps any eye on each and every sports by ensuring their presence in the
grounds."

"People have started taking interest in sports in the country and if the trend continues then we will win more medals in London Olympics," he said.

He said sports culture has developed in Madhya Pradesh and praised the sports facilities at Tatya Tope Nagar Stadium in the state capital, especially the shooting range which has facilities for both senior and junior players.

When asked about some problems with his gun in Beijing, he said he was not sure about it, but something happened with the gun. "Overall the game was fair," he added.

Referring to the progress of China in sports, he said it will take a long time for India to reach the level of the Chinese.

Bindra said if India has to compete China, the government has to provide better facilities and keep aside politics and favouritism. "Sports should be encouraged by providing quality infrastructure and latest equipments. The Government, Indian Olympic Association and other sports bodies have to play important roles," he said.

Bindra arrived along with his father AS Bindra to take part in various felicitation programmes organised by sports associations and Bhopal Municipal Corporation.

He also distributed Madhya Pradesh government's sports awards (Vikram, Eklavya, Vishwamitra and Lifetime Achievement Award) to sportspersons. Madhya Pradesh government will also hand over a cheque of Rs five lakh to Bindra for winning the first individual gold medal in Olympics.