New Delhi [India], July 13 (ANI): President Ram Nath Kovind and Prime Minister Narendra Modi have applauded Hima Das, who recently became the first Indian woman to win gold at IAAF World U-20 Athletics Championships.

Taking to social media, President Kovind congratulated sprinter Das for her performance and said it is a "very proud" moment for Assam and India.

"Congratulations to our sensational sprint star Hima Das for winning the 400m gold in the World Under-20 Championship. This is India's first ever track gold in a World Championship. A very proud moment for Assam and India, Hima; now the Olympic podium beckons! #PresidentKovind," he tweeted.

Meanwhile, Prime Minister Modi said Das' win will "certainly inspire young athletes in the coming years."

He wrote, "India is delighted and proud of athlete Hima Das, who won a historic Gold in the 400m of World U20 Championships. Congratulations to her! This accomplishment will certainly inspire young athletes in the coming years."

The 18-year-old, on Thursday, made the country proud as she scripted history by clinching the top spot in the women's 400 m final race at the World U-20 Championships in Tampere, Finland.

A pre-tournament favourite, Das clocked 51.46s to finish ahead of Andrea Miklos of Romania and USA's Taylor Manson. (ANI)

(The above story is verified and authored by ANI staff, ANI is South Asia's leading multimedia news agency with over 100 bureaus in India, South Asia and across the globe. ANI brings the latest news on Politics and Current Affairs in India & around the World, Sports, Health, Fitness, Entertainment, & News. The views appearing in the above post do not reflect the opinions of LatestLY)