As the Paris Olympics 2024 kick off on July 26, India is set to participate with a strong contingent of 117 athletes. This marks India’s second-largest team in Olympic history, following the record-breaking 121 athletes who competed in Tokyo 2020. Among the 117 athletes, a significant number, approximately 61%, will be making their Olympic debut in France’s capital.
Key Highlights of the Indian Contingent
1. Debutants and Experienced Athletes: Out of the 117 athletes, 72 will be participating in their first Olympics. This infusion of new talent underscores India’s growing investment in nurturing young athletes. Meanwhile, the contingent also includes seasoned competitors like Neeraj Chopra, Mirabai Chanu, PV Sindhu, Lovlina Borgohain, and the men’s hockey team, all of whom have previously won medals.
2. Diverse Participation: India will compete in 16 sports disciplines, showcasing its expanding prowess across various fields. The largest groups are in athletics and shooting, with the athletics team comprising 29 participants, including two reserves.
3. Gender Representation: The contingent includes 70 male and 47 female athletes, reflecting a balanced representation of gender. Notably, female athletes continue to make strides in various disciplines, highlighting the growing support for women’s sports in India.
4. State Contributions: Haryana leads the states with the highest number of athletes (24), followed by Punjab (19). This highlights the robust sports infrastructure and talent development programs in these regions.
5. Multiple Event Participants: Some athletes will compete in multiple events, increasing their chances for medals. For instance, Parul Chaudhary will participate in the women’s 3000m steeplechase and the 5000m run, while Manu Bhaker will compete in the women’s 10m air pistol, 10m air pistol mixed team event, and the 25m pistol shooting events.
Conclusion
The Paris Olympics 2024 is a significant event for Indian sports, with a mix of debutants and experienced athletes ready to make their mark. With strong support from the government and sports federations, the Indian contingent aims to surpass previous records and bring glory to the nation. The enthusiasm and determination of these athletes reflect India’s growing stature in the global sports arena.
