Asian Games gold medalist Hima Das has been appointed as UNICEF India’s youth ambassador. On the occasion of Children’s Day 2018 event on Wednesday, the sprinter was named as India’s first ever Youth Ambassador. As a Youth Ambassador, the 18-year-old athlete will work for raising awareness about the rights and needs of children. After being named as the Youth Ambassador, Hima said, “I’m honoured to be chosen as UNICEF India’s Youth Ambassador, and I hope I will be able to inspire more children to follow their dreams.”

Hima made it to headlines after winning the gold medal in a track event at the IAAF World U20 Championships in July this year. She is the first Indian athlete to achieve the feat. Subsequently, she won the gold medal in 4x400m women's relay event at the Asian Games in August this year. Hima Das Meets Sachin Tendulkar: Indian Sprinter Gifted a Signed Jersey by Master Blaster As Duo Exchange Greetings on Twitter! (View Pics)

She also holds the current Indian national record in 400 metres with a timing of 50.79s set during the 2018 Asian Games. Apart from the gold medal. Hima also clinched two silver medals at the Asian Games in Indonesia’s Jakarta.

The Assam-based athlete has also received the Arjuna Award from President Ram Nath Kovind this year and is the fifth Arjuna Award winner player from the state.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Nov 14, 2018 05:16 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).