Manu Bhaker: A Triumph of Khelo India's Sporting Ecosystem

Manu Bhaker, India's first female Olympic shooter to win a medal at the Paris Games, attributes her success to the Khelo India programme. The government initiative identifies and nurtures sports talent through training and international exposure. Sports Minister Mansukh Mandaviya highlights this support as crucial for future Olympic bids.

Manu Bhaker, who became the first Indian woman shooter to win an Olympic medal at the Paris Games, attributes her success to the Khelo India programme. Sports Minister Mansukh Mandaviya stated that Bhaker is a product of the government's flagship initiative.

On Sunday, Bhaker ended a 12-year medal drought for Indian shooting, earning a bronze in the 10m air pistol competition. The young sportswoman emphasized that initiatives like Khelo India have significantly shaped her career, a sentiment she shared with PM Modi before the Games.

Mandaviya explained that Khelo India focuses on talent identification through its KIRTI Project, providing athletes with training, facilities, and necessary support. Bhaker’s journey through Khelo India and TOPS initiatives included training in Germany and Switzerland, highlighting the extensive support system for athletes. The minister also stressed the importance of sending personal coaches with athletes, and detailed the comprehensive support provided in Paris, including a central information system, medical board, and national morale boost from athletes' performances. Looking ahead, Mandaviya confirmed India's preparations for a 2036 Olympic bid, intending to meet international expectations.