As the curtains closed on the Paris Olympics 2024, Prime Minister Narendra Modi took to social media to express his appreciation for the Indian contingent’s efforts. He lauded the athletes for their dedication and hard work, stating that every Indian is proud of their achievements. The Prime Minister extended his best wishes to the sporting heroes for their upcoming endeavors.
A total of 117 Indian athletes competed across various disciplines, seeking to etch their names in the annals of Olympic history. Their efforts bore fruit with a total of six medals, a testament to India’s rising sporting prowess. The nation secured one silver and five bronze medals, marking a significant milestone in its Olympic journey.
Manu Bhaker, the young shooting star, became the first Indian woman to win an Olympic medal in shooting, earning a bronze. Her historic feat was further amplified when she claimed another bronze medal in the mixed team 10m air pistol event, alongside Sarabjot Singh. This marked India’s first ever team medal in shooting at the Olympics.
India’s shooting contingent continued its impressive run with Swapnil Kusale adding another bronze, solidifying the nation’s largest ever haul in the sport at a single Olympic Games. The men’s hockey team, echoing their Tokyo 2020 success, secured another bronze medal, demonstrating their consistent dominance in the sport.
Neeraj Chopra, the javelin throw sensation, added another feather to his cap, winning a silver medal in Paris, further solidifying his place as one of India’s most successful Olympians. Aman Sehrawat, the nation’s youngest Olympic medallist, clinched a bronze in wrestling, further boosting India’s medal count.
Despite the triumphant moments, the Paris Olympics 2024 witnessed several near-misses for India. Athletes like Lakshya Sen, Mirabai Chanu, and Manu Bhaker missed out on potential medals by finishing fourth in their respective events. The disqualification of Vinesh Phogat, just before a potential historic final, further added to the nation’s disappointment.
However, the Indian contingent’s overall performance at the Paris Olympics 2024 was a testament to the nation’s burgeoning sporting talent and its growing presence on the global stage. The athletes competed across 16 sports, displaying exceptional skills and determination, leaving an indelible mark on the Games. With a rich Olympic history spanning over a century, India’s pursuit of sporting excellence continues to inspire generations of athletes, propelling the nation towards even greater triumphs in the future.
