London Olympics bronze medalist shooter Gagan Narang has taken over as India’s Chef-de-Mission for the upcoming Paris Olympics. He replaces Mary Kom, who resigned from the position in April due to personal reasons. The announcement was made by Indian Olympic Association (IOA) President PT Usha, who praised Narang’s experience and capabilities. Usha stated that Narang’s elevation from Deputy CDM was an automatic choice following Kom’s resignation. Narang, a 41-year-old Olympic medalist, was previously responsible for overseeing India’s operations at the shooting range during the Games. This appointment makes him responsible for the overall welfare and support of the Indian contingent at the Paris Olympics.
Meanwhile, PV Sindhu, India’s only woman athlete to win back-to-back Olympic medals, has been selected as the female flag bearer for the opening ceremony alongside table tennis ace Achanta Sharath Kamal. The IOC’s protocol, implemented in 2020, allows each National Olympic Committee (NOC) to have one female and one male athlete carry the flag jointly. Sindhu and Kamal will lead the Indian contingent during the opening ceremony on July 26th.
Mary Kom, a six-time world champion, had served as Chef-de-Mission since March this year. The Chef-de-Mission plays a crucial administrative role, ensuring the well-being of the participating athletes, catering to their needs, and coordinating with the organizing committee.
The IOA is now tasked with finding a replacement for Narang at the shooting range, as India will send its largest-ever shooting contingent to the Games, with 21 athletes qualified for the event. Usha expressed confidence in the Indian athletes’ preparation and their ability to perform well in Paris. Over 100 Indian athletes have qualified for the Paris Games, which are scheduled to begin on July 26th.
