New Delhi: India finished their Olympic campaign with only one silver medal but Sports Minister Sunil Dutt is not disappointed with the performance of Indian sportspersons.

"It (India's performance) was not bad. There has been a definite improvement in their performance. It is not easy to finish fourth, sixth or even seventh in the Olympics," Dutt said after flagging off 'Run for Sports' to mark the National Sports Day today (Aug 29, 2004).

Athens silver medallist shooter Major Rajyavardhan Singh Rathore also took part in the run.

"Look at Marion Jones of America, one of the richest countries. She finished fifth after availing all the possible facilities. But our sportsmen have limitations in the form of funds and facilities. They will definitely do well in coming days," Dutt said.

The film star-turned-politician said the Athens Games had taught that four years were not enough for preparation for such a big event and "sports culture" needed to be inculcated in children right from their early school days.

"We need to prepare our sportspersons from their school days to win a medal," he said.