Neeraj Chopra Leads Armed Forces' Olympic Quest at Paris 2024

Twenty-four personnel from the armed forces, including ace javelin thrower Neeraj Chopra and two women athletes, are set to compete at the 2024 Paris Olympics. This marks the first participation of female service athletes. Chopra, a 2020 Tokyo gold medallist, aims for more honors alongside other talented service members.

Twenty-four personnel from India's armed forces, including star javelin thrower Neeraj Chopra and two female athletes, will compete in the 2024 Paris Olympics, announced the Ministry of Defence on Saturday.

This historic contingent marks the first time female service athletes will participate in the Olympics. Neeraj Chopra, a subedar in the Indian Army and the 2020 Tokyo Olympics gold medallist, is poised for further glory. His recent achievements include gold medals at the 2023 Asian Games, 2023 World Athletics Championship, 2024 Diamond League, and 2024 Paavo Nurmi Games.

The other notable athletes in the roster include Havildar Jaismine Lamboria and CPO Ritika Hooda, both making their Olympic debuts in boxing and wrestling, respectively. Additional service members participating are Sub Amit Panghal (boxing), CPO Tajinderpal Singh Toor (shot-put), Sub Avinash Mukund Sable (3000m steeplechase), among others.

The Indian Army's formidable presence will be visible across seven disciplines. Army Chief Gen Upendra Dwivedi has shown support through interactions with athletes, underscoring the importance of their roles. This contingent is set to make the nation proud at the games commencing on July 26, 2024.

(With inputs from agencies.)