Manu Bhaker Wins Historic Bronze Medal in Paris Olympics 2024

Manu Bhaker clinched a historic bronze medal in Women's Air Pistol event at Paris Olympics 2024, marking her as the first Indian woman to win a shooting medal at the Olympics. Union Sports Minister Mansukh Mandaviya highlighted the extensive support and training that led to Bhaker's success.

Following Manu Bhaker's historic bronze medal in the Paris Olympics 2024, Union Sports Minister Mansukh Mandaviya praised the shooter and outlined the substantial efforts and investments that contributed to her victory. Bhaker secured her bronze medal in the Women's Air Pistol event on Sunday, making her the first Indian woman to achieve such a feat in shooting at the Olympics.

Mandaviya stated, "By winning the first bronze medal at the Paris Olympics, Manu Bhaker has made India proud. She has been part of 'Khelo India', an initiative started by PM Modi to enhance sports infrastructure, talent identification, and coaching in the country. Approximately Rs two crores were spent on her training, which included sessions in Germany and Switzerland." He expressed confidence in the future performances of other Indian athletes at the Olympics.

Mandaviya further elaborated on the extensive support provided to Bhaker, including financial aid to hire her preferred coach. He emphasized the comprehensive ecosystem established for all athletes to excel at both national and international levels. He also urged the public to support athletes on social media with #CheerForBharat.

Bhaker will compete again in the 10 m air pistol mixed team event alongside Sarabjot Singh. Other Indian athletes, including shooters Ramita Jindal and Arjun Babuta, and the men's archery team, are also aiming for medals at the ongoing Olympics.

On Sunday, Ramita advanced to the final of the women's 10 m air rifle event, while Arjun secured a place in the men's event finals. The men's archery team will compete in the quarterfinals. Bhaker's bronze is notable after her earlier setback at the Tokyo Olympics, marking her as the first Indian woman in 20 years to reach an individual shooting final at the Olympics since 2004.

South Korean shooter Ye Jin won gold with an Olympic record score of 243.2 points, while Kim Yeji clinched silver with 241.3 points.

(With inputs from agencies.)