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Abhinav Bindra, India's first individual Olympic gold medalist, expressed mixed emotions about India's performance at the 2024 Paris Olympics. While acknowledging the team's achievement in matching its London 2012 medal haul, Bindra lamented the absence of a gold medal.India sent a 117-member contingent to Paris, hoping to surpass its previous best Olympic performance in Tokyo. However, the team returned with six medals: five bronze and one silver. Bindra believes this result falls short of expectations, particularly in terms of gold medals."The Olympics is an incredibly challenging platform to perform on," Bindra said. "External and internal expectations can hinder athletes from letting go and performing at their best."India's campaign began promisingly with Manu Bhaker winning two bronze medals in shooting. Swapnil Kusale added a third bronze in the men's 50m rifle 3 position. However, the badminton, boxing, and archery contingents failed to deliver medals.In the final days of the Games, Neeraj Chopra won a silver medal in javelin throw, while the men's hockey team and wrestler Aman Sehrawat clinched bronze. Vinesh Phogat's disqualification prevented India from potentially winning a gold medal in wrestling.Despite the disappointment, Bindra emphasized the importance of continued investment in Olympic sports. "We must consolidate the gains that have been made and work harder to get there," he said.Bindra believes that India's athletes have performed well overall, but the lack of gold medals remains a concern. He urged athletes to focus on their own performance rather than external expectations.

Abhinav Bindra, India's first individual Olympic Gold medalist, has been bestowed with the prestigious Olympic Order by the International Olympic Committee (IOC). This honor recognizes Bindra's exceptional contributions to the Olympic Movement.Bindra's journey to this remarkable achievement is marked by numerous accolades and contributions both on and off the field. As an athlete, he became the first Indian to win an individual Olympic Gold medal at the 2008 Beijing Games in the Men's 10m Air rifle event. He also holds the distinction of being the first Indian to win a World Championship Gold in Air Rifle Shooting.Over his two-decade-long career, Bindra won over 150 individual medals, earning recognition as one of India's greatest sports icons. His exceptional service to the sport was further acknowledged when he was awarded the Blue Cross in 2018, the highest honor by the International Shooting Sport Federation (ISSF).Beyond his achievements in sports, Bindra has made significant contributions to sports governance. He chaired the ISSF Athletes Committee for eight years and currently serves as a member of the IOC Athlete Commission and Education Commission. These roles allow him to influence the development of global sports policies and advocate for athletes worldwide.Post-retirement, Bindra founded the Abhinav Bindra Foundation Trust (ABFT), a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting grassroots athletes in India through cutting-edge sports science technology. Through initiatives focused on high-performance training, education, and social upliftment, ABFT aims to bring global best practices to the Indian sporting landscape.A key initiative under Bindra's leadership is the Olympic Values Education Programme (OVEP), which is being implemented in partnership with the IOC's Olympic Foundation for Culture and Heritage (OFCH) and state governments in Odisha and Assam. Launched in Odisha in 2022 and Assam in 2023, OVEP aims to instil the core Olympic values of excellence, friendship, and respect in over 11,000 schools, impacting more than 1 million schoolchildren.Bindra's commitment to sustainability and environmental stewardship is reflected in the Odisha Ridley Forest Project, an initiative aimed at preserving the natural habitat of the endangered Olive Ridley turtles along the Odisha coastline.This recognition highlights Bindra's enduring legacy in the world of sports and his continued efforts to promote the values of Olympism globally.

Abhinav Bindra Initiates Unique Tradition at Paris 2024 OlympicsIn a historic moment at the Paris 2024 Olympics, Indian shooting legend Abhinav Bindra became the first Indian to perform the "Red Baton" ritual, a new tradition that signals the commencement of events.The Red Baton, also known as the "brigadier," is a red baton that is tapped three times on the floor before the start of an event. The ritual originated in French theater in the 17th century, where it was used to signal the audience that the performance was about to begin and to maintain silence.In the context of the Olympics, the Red Baton ritual has been adopted as an honorary tradition. It is believed that the three taps represent the essential elements of performing arts: the actors, the spectators, and the story. Another theory suggests that the Holy Trinity is represented in the ritual, while a third belief states that the actor's key positions on stage are celebrated.Bindra was invited to perform the ritual at the Women's 10m Air Rifle final on July 29. As India's first-ever individual Olympic gold medalist, Bindra's presence added a special significance to the occasion.The ritual, however, did not bring luck to Indian shooter Ramita, who was eliminated in seventh place. Nonetheless, the Red Baton tradition has become a unique and memorable aspect of the Paris 2024 Olympics, adding a touch of history and symbolism to the proceedings.

Abhinav Bindra, India's first individual Olympic gold medalist, has etched his name in history once again by participating in the Paris Olympics 2024 torch relay. The Beijing 2008 gold medalist carried the Olympic flame, symbolizing the spirit of the Games and the power of dreams.Bindra's participation in the torch relay is a testament to his unwavering commitment to the Olympic Movement. He has been a beacon of inspiration for countless athletes and sports enthusiasts in India and around the world. His journey to the Olympic podium was marked by hard work, dedication, and an unwavering belief in his abilities.In addition to his Olympic triumph, Bindra has achieved remarkable success throughout his illustrious career. He is the first Indian to have held both the world and Olympic titles for the men's 10m air rifle event. He has also won seven Commonwealth Games medals and three Asian Games medals.Bindra's contributions to the Olympic Movement extend beyond his athletic achievements. He has been actively involved in promoting the values of Olympism and inspiring future generations of athletes. His participation in the Paris Olympics 2024 torch relay is a fitting tribute to his legacy as a true sports legend.On Monday, Bindra was honored with the prestigious Olympic Order from the International Olympic Committee (IOC). This award recognizes his outstanding services to the Olympic Movement. Bindra is the first and one of only two Indians to receive this prestigious honor.Bindra's achievements and contributions to the Olympic Movement have made him a national icon and a role model for aspiring athletes. His participation in the Paris Olympics 2024 torch relay is a reminder of the enduring power of the Olympic spirit and the transformative impact of sports on individuals and communities.

India's Olympic aspirations have long been a subject of debate, with varying metrics used to measure success. As the nation prepares for the 2024 Paris Games, the focus remains on tangible results, with medals serving as the ultimate benchmark.For athletes like Neeraj Chopra, Olympic glory brings substantial rewards, including government grants and corporate endorsements. However, failure can lead to swift public disinterest. This pressure drives athletes to perform at their peak, recognizing that a single event can define their careers.To achieve excellence, experts emphasize the importance of mastering the process. Athletics Federation of India president Adille Sumariwalla advocates for a long-term approach, focusing on progression rather than immediate medal count. The government's increased financial support for athletics, amounting to ₹96.08 crore, reflects a renewed belief in the sport's potential.Manisha Malhotra, who has worked with both Abhinav Bindra and Neeraj Chopra, highlights the mental fortitude that sets successful athletes apart. They possess unwavering belief and leave no stone unturned in their preparation.Bindra believes that today's Indian athletes are more confident and ambitious than their predecessors. However, the pressure to perform remains constant, requiring adaptability and focus on the present moment.Despite significant progress, India still faces challenges in creating a thriving sports ecosystem. Grassroots coaching, infrastructure, and sports science expertise are crucial for nurturing talent. The government acknowledges the need for a comprehensive approach, emphasizing that financial support is not the sole solution.Bindra urges athletes to take pride in representing India, regardless of the outcome. He believes that the pursuit of Olympic glory should not overshadow the journey and the sacrifices made along the way.

Abhinav Bindra, the legendary Indian shooter who etched his name in Olympic history as the first Indian to win an individual gold medal, has been bestowed with the prestigious Olympic Order. This accolade, the highest honor bestowed by the International Olympic Committee (IOC), recognizes Bindra's exceptional contributions to the Olympic movement.Bindra, a member of the IOC Athletes Commission, is the first Indian to receive this coveted award. The decision to confer the Olympic Order on Bindra was made at the IOC Executive Board meeting in Paris on Saturday. The announcement was met with widespread acclaim from prominent figures in the sports world.In a letter dated July 20, 2024, IOC President Thomas Bach informed Bindra of the honor, stating, "It is with great pleasure that I inform you that the IOC Executive Board has today decided to award you with the Olympic Order for your outstanding services to the Olympic November."The award ceremony will take place during the 142nd IOC Session in Paris on August 10. Bach expressed his sincere congratulations to Bindra, saying, "May I take this opportunity to address you my most sincere congratulations on this award. Looking forward to seeing you in Paris."Among those who extended their congratulations to Bindra was Minister for Youth Affairs and Sports, Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya. In a post on X, formerly Twitter, Dr. Mandaviya hailed Bindra's achievement, saying, "Congratulations to @Abhinav_Bindra on being awarded the Olympic Order for outstanding contributions to the Olympic Movement! His achievement fills us with pride and is truly well-deserved. His name alone has inspired generations of shooters and Olympians."The official handle of IPL side Lucknow Super Giants also celebrated Bindra's honor, posting a photo of him winning India's maiden individual gold medal in men's 10m air rifle in Beijing 2008, accompanied by the caption, "History-maker, once again, Congratulations Abhinav Bindra."Bindra's Olympic Order award is a testament to his unwavering dedication to the Olympic movement and his exceptional achievements as an athlete. His legacy as a pioneer in Indian sports continues to inspire generations of athletes and sports enthusiasts alike.

India's Olympic journey in the 21st century has been marked by steady progress, with the country winning more medals than in all its previous appearances combined. Since the turn of the millennium, India has claimed 20 Olympic medals, including a historic gold in 2008 and another in 2021.Sydney 2000: Breaking BarriersThe Sydney Olympics witnessed a significant milestone for India as Karnam Malleswari became the first Indian woman to win an Olympic medal, claiming bronze in weightlifting. This breakthrough paved the way for future female athletes to excel on the Olympic stage.Athens 2004: Shooting SuccessRajyavardhan Singh Rathore etched his name in Indian Olympic history by winning the country's first individual silver medal in shooting. His achievement in men's trap shooting marked a turning point for India in the sport.Beijing 2008: Golden GloryAbhinav Bindra's historic gold medal in men's 10m air rifle was a watershed moment for India. It was the country's first individual gold since 1980 and the first in a sport other than hockey. Sushil Kumar and Vijender Singh also contributed bronze medals in wrestling and boxing, respectively.London 2012: Record HaulIndia's medal tally doubled in London, with Sushil Kumar becoming the first Indian to win two individual Olympic medals. The men's hockey team returned to the Olympics and finished eighth, while Saina Nehwal and Mary Kom made history as the first Indian women to win individual medals in badminton and boxing, respectively.Rio 2016: Resilience and RedemptionDespite high expectations, India faced a medal drought until Sakshi Malik's bronze in women's wrestling. PV Sindhu's silver in badminton provided a glimmer of hope, showcasing India's growing strength in the sport.Tokyo 2020 (held in 2021): Golden EraIndia's performance in Tokyo was its most successful ever, with a record seven medals. Neeraj Chopra's gold in javelin throw was a historic achievement, while the men's hockey team ended a 41-year medal drought with a bronze. Mirabai Chanu, PV Sindhu, Lovlina Borgohain, Ravi Dahiya, and Bajrang Punia also contributed medals in weightlifting, badminton, boxing, and wrestling, respectively.

The 2008 Beijing Olympics marked a turning point for Indian sports, thanks to the remarkable achievement of Abhinav Bindra. Despite the absence of the men's hockey team for the first time since 1928 and the doping bans that decimated the weightlifting contingent, India found a beacon of hope in Bindra.Bindra's gold medal in the men's 10m air rifle was not a stroke of luck but the culmination of meticulous preparation. Having finished seventh at the 2004 Athens Olympics, Bindra spent years honing his skills in Germany under the guidance of renowned coaches. He underwent rigorous training, including commando exercises, to overcome his stage fright.During the qualification round, Bindra sailed through with a score of 596, while his compatriot Gagan Narang narrowly missed out. However, in the finals, Bindra faced a setback during sighting time when his gun sight malfunctioned. With quick thinking, he made adjustments and regained his composure.Throughout the finals, Bindra displayed unwavering calmness, consistently shooting 10s and above. Finland's Henri Häkkinen kept pace until the final shot, but his 9.7 score fell short of Bindra's near-perfect 10.8. The Indian finished with a total score of 700.5, securing the gold medal.Bindra's victory was a watershed moment for Indian sports. It shattered the perception that India could not compete at the highest level in shooting. His gold medal inspired a new generation of athletes, including javelin star Neeraj Chopra, who became India's first-ever gold medallist in athletics at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics.

Sports: A Catalyst for Friendship, Respect, and SolidarityOlympic gold medalist shooter Abhinav Bindra has emphasized the profound impact of sports beyond the realm of competition. At the Revsportz Trailblazers 2.0 conclave, Bindra, along with Italian shooter Niccolo Campriani and legendary Indian shuttler Pullela Gopichand, shared their insights on the transformative power of sports.Bindra highlighted the Olympic Value Education Program run by his foundation in Odisha. He cited the example of a mixed-team football tournament in schools, where the Olympic values had a significant impact. "As many as 63 of the 100 school teams were led by girls," Bindra said, demonstrating the program's success in promoting gender equality.He also shared an inspiring story of children modifying game rules to include a teammate with a disability. "It is such transformation that warms the heart," Bindra said. "Sport teaches you friendship, respect, and solidarity and can shape people while making them health conscious."Campriani, who retired from shooting alongside Bindra, spoke about their collaboration on the Refugee Project for the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games. He expressed his gratitude for the opportunity to contribute to society and make a meaningful impact. "To see refugee athletes start from scratch and compete in the Olympics was good," he said.Gopichand, renowned for his contributions to Indian badminton, emphasized the importance of physical literacy and participation in sports for all. "Sport should not be only for a select few and just about competition or winning," he said. "We need to have the larger perspective about the mind-body connect."The Trailblazers 2.0 conclave served as a platform for these sports icons to share their experiences and perspectives on the transformative power of sports. Their insights underscore the importance of sports in fostering friendship, respect, solidarity, and overall well-being.