Union Sports Minister Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya, alongside Union Minister of State for Youth Affairs and Sports Smt. Raksha Khadse, celebrated the stellar performance of the Indian shooting team at the Paris Olympics. The event in New Delhi honored six distinguished shooters, with Sarabjot Singh receiving special recognition for his bronze medal in the 10m air pistol mixed team event with Manu Bhaker.
Dr. Mandaviya presented Sarabjot Singh with a cheque for Rs 22.5 Lakh as part of the Ministry of Youth Affairs & Sports’ cash award scheme. The event also acknowledged the achievements of Arjun Babuta, Ramita Jindal, Rhythm Sangwan, Sandeep Singh, and Arjun Singh Cheema, along with their coaches Suma Shirur, Samaresh Jung, and Sarabjot’s personal coach Abhishek Rana. Arjun Babuta was also noted for his near-podium finish, securing 4th place in the Men’s 10m Air Rifle event.
In his address, Dr. Mandaviya commended the athletes, saying, “Each of you is a champion. Although some of you narrowly missed a medal, let this experience drive your passion and determination for future competitions.”
Highlighting the impact of the Khelo India program, Dr. Mandaviya stated, “Out of 117 athletes, 70 are first-time Olympians, reflecting the rise of new talent in our country. Of these, 28 athletes have progressed from Khelo India to the Target Olympic Podium Scheme, showing consistent performance and support from grassroots to elite levels.”
Dr. Mandaviya emphasized the dedication and hard work of the athletes, saying, “Sarabjot exemplifies the journey from Khelo India to the Olympic podium. However, their success is due not only to the support they receive but also to their relentless hard work and the encouragement from their parents, coaches, and supporters.”
Bronze medallist Sarabjot has been a Khelo India scholarship athlete since 2019. Similarly, Arjun Cheema, Rhythm Sangwan, Arjun Babuta, and Ramita have benefited from the scheme, progressing to the Target Olympic Podium Scheme.
Discussing the growth of India’s sports ecosystem, Dr. Mandaviya mentioned, “Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi envisions India as a developed country by 2047, with sports playing a significant role. By 2047, India aims to be among the top 5 in the world in sports ecosystems.”
He also highlighted initiatives like KIRTI (Khelo India Rising Talent Initiative) as game-changers for identifying future Olympians from the grassroots level.
During the event, the shooters shared their experiences at the Paris Olympics and praised the advanced facilities now available in India, including infrastructure, sports science, and coaching. They also acknowledged the substantial government support in their journey to the Paris Olympics.
