Our campaign at the Paris 2024 Olympic Games was marked by determination, consistency, and moments of brilliance that highlighted the nation’s growing stature in the global sporting arena. We finished with a tally of 6 medals with one Silver Medal and Five Bronze Medals.
One of the brightest highlights was the performance of Neeraj Chopra, who continued his golden legacy from Tokyo by securing a silver medal in the men’s javelin throw. His throw of 89.45 metres reaffirmed his place among the world’s elite athletes and showcased India’s strength in athletics at the highest level. Neeraj’s medal was not just a personal triumph but also a source of immense national pride, inspiring countless young athletes across the country.
Shooting emerged as a true success story in Paris. The sport accounted for three bronze medals, with Manu Bhaker making history by becoming the first Indian female shooter to win two medals in the same Olympic Games. Her podium finishes in both the women’s 10m air pistol and the mixed team 10m air pistol event along with Sarabjot Singh underlined India’s depth of talent in shooting. These victories demonstrated the steady progress of India’s shooting program and set the stage for even greater achievements in the years ahead.
Team sports also brought joy to the nation, with the Indian men’s hockey team winning bronze after defeating Spain in a hard-fought match. This medal was particularly significant as it marked back-to-back Olympic podium finishes for Indian hockey following the bronze in Tokyo 2020, rekindling memories of our glorious past in the sport. The consistency shown by the team has reignited hopes of a full revival of Indian hockey on the world stage.
Beyond the medals, there were inspiring performances that reflected India’s increasing competitiveness in diverse disciplines. Avinash Sable’s qualification for the final of the men’s 3000m steeplechase was a historic moment, as it showcased India’s growing presence in middle- and long-distance athletics. Performances like his underline the expanding horizons of Indian athletics beyond traditional strengths.
Overall, our showing at Paris 2024 was our third-best Olympic performance in history, proving that the country is no longer a marginal player but a consistent contender across a range of sports. The medals, combined with the near-misses and breakthrough performances, reflected the strength of our sporting ecosystem, which has been nurtured by improved infrastructure, greater international exposure, and the relentless spirit of its athletes.
As the tricolour flew high in Paris, the message was clear: India is on a steady upward trajectory in the world of sport. The successes of 2024 are a stepping stone towards even greater achievements, fueling the nation’s dreams as it looks ahead to Los Angeles 2028 and beyond.
