India's Chef-De-Mission Gagan Narang Upbeat as Indian Contingent Gears Up for Paris Olympics 2024

India's Chef-De-Mission, Gagan Narang, expressed confidence and enthusiasm as the first Indian teams arrived at the Olympic Village in Paris. With 117 athletes competing in 20 disciplines, Narang looks forward to surpassing the achievements of the Tokyo Olympics. The Paris Olympics 2024 starts July 26.

As the first Indian teams arrived in the Olympic Village in Paris, India's Chef-De-Mission Gagan Narang reported the contingent is eager to commence their campaign. Narang highlighted that every athlete possesses the potential to compete and surpass some of the world's best. The Paris Olympics 2024 is set to begin on July 26 and conclude on August 11. India's aim is to exceed its tally of seven medals from the 2020 Tokyo Olympics, which comprised a gold, two silvers, and four bronzes.

'I arrived in Paris on Thursday night and reviewed the arrangements for the Indian contingent. The first teams from archery and rowing arrived on Friday and have settled in comfortably,' said the 2012 London Olympics bronze medalist Narang in a press release. He stated that the overall mood is one of anticipation and excitement. 'The Indian men's hockey team is arriving on Saturday, evoking memories of my own Olympic days. While there is excitement, athletes are focused on getting game time on competition grounds. Ensuring all needs are met before events start is a priority,' Narang added. A total of 117 athletes from India will compete across 20 disciplines at the Paris Olympics. Narang praised the strong Indian contingent, expressing delight in having several medal contenders.

'It's a great pride to see the growing number of medal contenders. Each athlete in our contingent is capable of competing with and even surpassing the world's best to bring laurels to the nation. This strong contingent places India in a favorable position as we gear up for Paris,' he said. The honored Indian shooter, recipient of the Khel Ratna and Padma Shri Awards, thanked the Indian Olympic Association (IOA) for appointing him Chef-de-Mission for the Paris Olympics.

'It is an honor to travel with the Indian contingent as Chef-de-Mission. I am grateful for this role and the chance to serve my country on sports' biggest stage,' said Narang. The four-time Olympian committed to serving the best interests of the Indian contingent as a spokesperson, mentor, supporter, and cheerleader. He vowed to motivate athletes and ensure a smooth, efficient process during the Games.

'As an athlete, I understand the demands of elite sports on the world stage. I will work strenuously to inspire the Indian contingent and safeguard their priorities. I am delighted to act as the primary liaison between our athletes, organizing committees, and other stakeholders,' he said. Narang acknowledged the unprecedented coordination among stakeholders to ensure Indian athletes have optimal facilities.

'Unprecedented coordination exists between the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports, the Sports Authority of India, National Sports Federations, and the IOA. Everyone, including personal coaches and support staff traveling with athletes, is aligned to prevent last-minute issues. Requests have been accommodated to ensure necessary support staff are present,' emphasized Narang. He also recognized the fully-equipped medical team and commended the India House, a home-away-from-home effort by the Reliance Foundation and IOA.

'India House reflects our culture and history of 100 years of Olympic participation. I thank the sponsors for supporting the IOA,' he added. Narang further expressed hopes for a successful campaign in Paris, offering best wishes to the athletes. 'I am elated to see national support for Prime Minister Narendra Modi's vision to develop India into a sporting powerhouse. As a former Olympian, I understand the pressures of competing at this level. I hope athletes enjoy their time in Paris and create lasting memories. Best wishes for surpassing our Tokyo Olympics record,' he concluded.

(With inputs from agencies.)