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India's Olympic campaign kicks off on Friday with archers taking the stage, aiming to surpass their record medal haul of seven from Tokyo. Among the medal contenders, Neeraj Chopra faces stiff competition from Jakub Valdlejch and Arshad Nadeem in the javelin throw. The men's hockey team faces a challenging group stage, with Australia posing a significant threat. PV Sindhu, despite recent struggles, remains a medal hopeful but could face a showdown with reigning gold medalist Chen Yu Fei. Satwiksairaj Rankireddy and Chirag Shetty have a potential semifinal clash with Chinese top seeds in men's doubles. Nikhat Zareen identifies Turkey's Buse Naz Cakiroglu as her biggest challenge in the women's 50kg boxing category. Vinesh Phogat, despite past Olympic disappointments, aims to break the curse and secure a medal in wrestling.

Paris Olympics 2024: Indian Swimmer Srihari Nataraj Unboxes Official KitThe highly anticipated Summer Olympics are set to commence in Paris this year, with the official opening ceremony scheduled for July 26th. However, some events will take place prior to this date, igniting excitement among athletes and fans alike.Indian swimmer Srihari Nataraj, who made his Olympic debut in Tokyo 2020, has shared a glimpse of his official kit for the upcoming Paris Games. In a video posted on social media, Nataraj unboxes the contents of two suitcases adorned with the Puma logo.The video showcases a range of items, including ceremonial attire, casual outfits, uniforms, footwear, and accessories. Nataraj meticulously displays each piece, providing viewers with an exclusive look at the official gear that will be worn by Indian athletes during the Games.The video has garnered significant attention on social media, with over 1.7 lakh views and 13,000 likes. Instagram users have expressed their admiration for the kit, with many offering well wishes to Nataraj and the Indian Olympic team."Looking good," commented one user. "Best wishes for the Olympics," added another. Several others echoed these sentiments, expressing their excitement for the upcoming event.Nataraj's unboxing video serves as a reminder of the immense preparation and anticipation that goes into participating in the Olympics. It also highlights the pride and excitement that athletes feel when representing their country on the world stage.In addition to Nataraj, Dhinidhi Desinghu will also represent India in swimming at the Paris Olympics. Both athletes will be hoping to make a mark in their respective events and bring glory to their nation.

Rhythm Sangwan, a rising star in Indian pistol shooting, has emerged as a formidable force on the international stage. At just 20 years old, she has already amassed an impressive collection of medals, including seven World Championships medals, eight World Cup medals, and three Asian Championships medals. Her crowning achievement came at the Hangzhou Asian Games, where she won team gold in the women's 25m pistol event.Despite her early success, Rhythm remains grounded and focused on continuous improvement. "I don't believe in resting on my laurels," she says. "I have had my share of highs and lows, but opportunities like the Olympics make it all worthwhile."Rhythm will represent India in the 10m air pistol event at the Paris Olympics alongside the experienced Manu Bhaker. While expectations are high, Rhythm emphasizes the importance of staying present and giving her best. "I don't think of results," she says. "My only target is to give my 100 percent."Rhythm's preparation for the Olympics includes a rigorous training regimen and a focus on mental strength. She draws inspiration from Manu Bhaker, who bounced back from a disappointing performance in Tokyo. "The way she has bounced back says a lot about her mental strength," Rhythm says. "Shooting is an individual sport, but there are occasional discussions with her that help me improve."Rhythm's pre-match routine involves listening to upbeat music to help her enter the zone. "I like Bollywood music," she says. "It helps me get into my zone."Rhythm is confident of making an impact at the Olympics. She has experience shooting at the competition range in Chateauroux, France, which she believes will be an advantage. "My only goal will be to shoot the best I have ever done," she says.

Adani Group Pledges Support to Indian Contingent for 2024 Paris OlympicsIn a significant announcement, the Adani Group has pledged its unwavering support to the Indian contingent preparing for the 2024 Paris Olympics. The conglomerate has launched a campaign titled #DeshkaGeetAtOlympics, which celebrates the relentless dedication of Indian athletes and aims to ignite patriotism among the nation.The campaign revolves around the athletes' unwavering pursuit of victory and the honor of hearing the national anthem at the Olympics. The Adani Group recognizes the countless hours and years of training that these athletes have invested in their quest for excellence.Through its support, the Adani Group aims to elevate the sporting ecosystem in India and foster a culture of sportsmanship. Since 2016, the Group has supported over 28 athletes in various disciplines, including boxing, wrestling, tennis, javelin throw, shooting, and archery.Notable beneficiaries of the Adani Group's support include Commonwealth Games gold medalists Ravi Kumar Dahiya and Deepak Punia, as well as boxer Amit Panghal. Dahiya and Punia also secured silver medals at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics and the 2023 Asian Games.The Adani Group's commitment to Indian sports extends beyond the Olympics. The Group has also sponsored the Indian contingent at the Tokyo Olympics, the Birmingham Commonwealth Games 2022, and the Hangzhou Asian Games 2022.Sanjay Adesara, CBO of Adani Sportsline, expressed the Group's unwavering support for the athletes: "We extend our best wishes to our champion athletes and hope that we have more success than ever before. We are fully committed to supporting our athletes in their quest for excellence at the highest level in sport."As the Indian contingent embarks on the final leg of its preparations for the 2024 Paris Olympics, the Adani Group's support serves as a testament to the nation's unwavering belief in its athletes. The Group's commitment to developing the sporting ecosystem in India will undoubtedly contribute to the success of the Indian contingent and inspire future generations of athletes.

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.

India's Olympic journey towards Paris 2024 has begun with a promising start. The country has already secured 100 quotas across various sports, including archery, athletics, badminton, boxing, equestrian, golf, hockey, judo, rowing, sailing, shooting, swimming, table tennis, tennis, weightlifting, and wrestling.The Tokyo Olympics saw India create history with its largest-ever contingent and its biggest medal haul in a single edition. Neeraj Chopra's historic gold in men's javelin throw was a defining moment. At Paris 2024, the focus will once again be on Chopra, who will look to defend his title.In shooting, India has secured quotas in every Olympic category for the first time. Trap shooter Prithviraj Tondaiman and women's trap shooter Rajeshwari Kumari were among the first to qualify.Athletics has also seen significant progress. Race walkers Priyanka Goswami and Akshdeep Singh became the first Indians to qualify for the event at Paris 2024. Four Indian athletes breached the qualifying standard in the men's 20km walk, with Akshdeep, Vikash, and Paramjeet Singh receiving the nod.In boxing, Jasmine Lamboria secured the quota in the women's 57kg category. Renowned sports medicine expert Dr. Dinshaw Pardiwala has assured that all athletes are in prime condition for the Olympics.The complete list of Indian athletes who have qualified for Paris 2024 so far includes:* Archery: Dhiraj Bommadevara, Tarundeep Rai, Pravin Jadhav, Bhajan Kaur, Deepika Kumari, Ankita Bhakat* Athletics: Akshdeep Singh, Vikash Singh, Paramjeet Singh Bisht, Priyanka Goswami, Avinash Sable, Parul Chaudhary, Jyothi Yarraji, Kiran Pahal, Tajinderpal Singh Toor, Abha Khatua, Neeraj Chopra, Kishore Jena, Annu Rani, Sarvesh Kushare, Praveen Chithravel, Abdulla Aboobacker, Muhammed Anas Yahiya, Muhammed Ajmal, Amoj Jacob, Santhosh Tamilarasan, Rajesh Ramesh, Mijo Chaco Kurian, Vidhya Ramaraj, Jyothika Sri Dandi, MR Poovamma, Subha Venkatesan, Prachi, Priyanka Goswami/Suraj Panwar* Badminton: H.S Prannoy, Lakshya Sen, P.V Sindhu, Satwiksairaj Rankireddy, Chirag Shetty, Ashwini Ponappa, Tanisha Crasto* Boxing: Nikhat Zareen, Amit Phangal, Nishant Dev, Preeti Pawar, Lovlina Borgohain, Jaismine Lamboria* Equestrian: Anush Agarwalla* Golf: Subhankar Sharma, Gaganjeet Bhullar, Aditi Ashok, Diksha Dagar* Hockey: P.R Sreejesh, Jarmanpreet Singh, Amit Rogidas, Harmanpreet Singh, Sumit, Sanjay, Rajkumar Pal, Shamsher Singh, Manpreet Singh, Hardik Singh, Vivek Sagar Prasad, Abhishek, Sukhjeet Singh, Lalit Kumar Upadhyay, Mandeep Singh, Gujrant Singh* Judo: Tulika Mann* Rowing: Balraj Panwar* Sailing: Vishnu Saravanan, Nethra Kumanan* Shooting: Prithviraj Tondaiman, Rajeshwari Kumari, Shreyasi Singh, Anantjeet Singh Naruka, Raiza Dhillon, Maheshwari Chauhan, Anantjeet Singh Naruka/Maheshwari Chauhan, Sandeep Singh, Arjun Babuta, Elavenil Valarivan, Ramita Jindal, Swapnil Kusale, Aishwary Pratap Singh Tomar, Sift Kaur Samra, Anjum Moudgil, Sandeep Singh/Elavenil Valarivan, Arjun Babuta/Ramita Jindal, Arjun Cheema, Sarabjot Singh, Manu Bhaker, Rhythm Sangwam, Vijayveer Sidhu, Anish Bhanwala, Manu Bhaker, Esha Singh, Sarabjot Singh/Manu Bhakar, Arjun Cheema/Rhythm Sangwam* Swimming: Dhinidhi Desinghu, Srihari Nataraj* Table Tennis: Sharath Kamal, Harmeet Desai, Manav Thakkar, Manika Batra, Sreeja Akula, Archana Kamath* Tennis: Sumit Nagal, Rohan Bopanna, Sriram Balaji* Weightlifting: Mirabai Chanu* Wrestling: Aman Sehrawat, Vinesh Phogat, Anshu Malik, Nisha Dahiya, Reetika Hooda, Antim Phangal

The Indian Olympic Association (IOA) has assembled a formidable team of 13 sports science experts to provide comprehensive health and wellness support to Indian athletes at the upcoming Paris Olympics. Led by Chief Medical Officer Dr. Dinshaw Pardiwala, the team comprises specialists in various disciplines, including medicine, injury management, physiotherapy, massage therapy, mental conditioning, nutrition, and sleep therapy.This unprecedented initiative marks a significant step forward for Indian sports. The team will be stationed at a dedicated 600-square-foot recovery center in the Games Village, equipped with state-of-the-art recovery equipment. The center will feature two inflatable ice baths, Normatec recovery suits, cooling units, recliners, massage guns, and compression wraps.The star attraction of the recovery center will be three sleep pods designed to address sleep issues that often plague athletes under pre-event stress. Sleep is recognized as a crucial aspect of recovery, and the pods will provide a much-needed solution for athletes facing sleep disturbances.The sports science team has already begun familiarizing themselves with the Olympic-bound athletes by visiting various SAI centers and training venues. Dr. Pardiwala has also conducted online sessions to brief athletes about the recovery center and other protocols.The team's presence at the Olympics will ensure that Indian athletes have access to the latest advancements in sports science and recovery techniques. This comprehensive support system will empower athletes to perform at their peak and maximize their chances of success.

With the Paris 2024 Olympics fast approaching, India's preparations are in full swing. The country's seven medals at Tokyo and success at the Hangzhou Asian Games have raised expectations, but the Olympics present a formidable challenge.Union Sports Minister Anurag Thakur expressed confidence in India's athletes, stating that they will return with the country's best Olympic haul. The government has supported athletes' qualification and preparation, sanctioning over 350 foreign exposure trips.As of now, 58 Indian athletes have qualified for Paris 2024, including both the men's and women's Table Tennis teams, as well as quotas in women's Skeet Shooting and Equestrian (Dressage).The government has graded National Sports Federations (NSFs) based on performance and expectations, but fund cuts are not considered a measure for non-performance. Instead, the focus is on providing support to athletes through federations.India has expressed its intention to bid for the 2036 Olympics and 2030 Youth Olympics. The government is working closely with the Indian Olympic Association and the IOC Future Hosts Commission to make a strong recommendation in favor of the Indian bid.To achieve success in terms of medals, India is encouraging sports like cycling and swimming, which offer multiple medal opportunities. The government has increased its sports budget three times in the past decade, and corporate and private investments through CSR funds have also contributed to the development of Indian sport.The Khelo India Games play a crucial role in talent identification, and the upcoming KIRTI Platform aims to tap into untapped sporting talent across India.Women's sport is a particular area of focus, with the government enhancing its support in recent years. Women athletes have won five medals in the last two Olympic Games and have made significant contributions to India's medal tally at the Asian Games.