COAS Felicitates Indian Army Sportspersons for Stellar Performance at Paris Olympics 2024

Sub Maj Neeraj Chopra, PVSM, VSM, won India's only silver medal in Javelin, further solidifying his legacy as one of the country's top athletes.

General Upendra Dwivedi, Chief of the Army Staff (COAS), honored Indian Army sportspersons for their exceptional performance at the Paris Olympics 2024 in a ceremony held at South Block. The event celebrated the athletes' achievements and highlighted the Indian Army's critical role in nurturing sports talent in the country.

The Indian contingent secured a total of six medals at the Paris Olympics, including one silver and five bronze. Sub Maj Neeraj Chopra, PVSM, VSM, won India's only silver medal in Javelin, further solidifying his legacy as one of the country's top athletes. This achievement is a testament to the remarkable display of sporting prowess by Indian Army personnel at the Olympics.

Key Performances by Indian Army Personnel:

Sub Maj Neeraj Chopra, PVSM, VSM (Athletics - Javelin): Silver Medal

Sub Bommandevara Dhiraj (Archery - Recurve): 4th Position

As India gears up to bid for the 2036 International Olympics, the Indian Army continues to play a crucial role in promoting Olympic excellence. The Army's Mission Olympic Wing (MOW), established in 2001, is dedicated to identifying and nurturing sporting talent. To further support young athletes, the Indian Army has established two Girls Sports Companies and 18 Boys Sports Companies. These initiatives provide a platform for athletes to develop their skills, gain confidence, and compete on the global stage.

Indian Army's Olympic Journey:

2004 Athens: One Silver Medal (Col RVS Rathore - Shooting)

2012 London: One Silver Medal (Sub Maj (Hony Capt) Vijay Kumar - Shooting)

2020 Tokyo: One Gold Medal (Sub Maj Neeraj Chopra - Javelin)

2024 Paris: One Silver Medal (Sub Maj Neeraj Chopra - Javelin)

During the Paris Olympics, the Indian Army made up 11.11% of the Indian contingent (13 out of 117 athletes). Their contributions accounted for 16.66% of India's total medal tally, including the highest medal (Silver). The Indian Army's representation in men's events was 18.2% (12 out of 66), and the 2024 Olympics saw the first-ever Indian Army woman sportsperson, Hav Jaismine, competing in boxing.

The COAS expressed immense pride in the Army's athletes, emphasizing that their discipline, perseverance, and dedication reflect the core values of the Indian Army. Their achievements have not only brought accolades to the nation but also inspired countless others to strive for excellence in sports. The Indian Army continues to be a pillar of strength, valor, and discipline, contributing significantly to nation-building through various socio-cultural engagements, including sports.

General Dwivedi expressed confidence that Indian Army sportspersons would continue their pursuit of excellence and achieve even greater success in the future.