India's Shooting Triumph at Paris Olympics Fuels Ambitions for Los Angeles 2028

The Indian shooting contingent achieved its biggest-ever medal haul at the Paris Olympics, recording significant successes despite past failures in Rio and Tokyo. Eyes are now set on the 2028 Los Angeles Games. Key contributors include Manu Bhaker and Sarabjot Singh. Concerns are raised regarding the continuation of the junior development program.

The Indian shooting contingent secured its largest medal haul to date at the Paris Olympics, marking a significant comeback after previous disappointments in Rio and Tokyo. Celebrations are underway, but the focus is already shifting towards the 2028 Los Angeles Games.

All of India's medals in Paris have come from shooting, with a potential to increase the count to four by the competition's end. Manu Bhaker, alongside Sarabjot Singh, emerged as standout performers, earning two medals in the 10m pistol mixed team event. India fielded a record 21-member team, making six finals, although narrowly missing medals in two events.

Training was rigorous, held across multiple countries, and coaches unified for the common goal of producing medallists. Despite setbacks in events like the women's 50m rifle three positions, ISSF president Luciano Rossi noted India's growing importance in the sport. NRAI's past head, Raninder Singh, emphasized the need to reinstate the junior development program under NRAI control to ensure future success at the Los Angeles Games.

(With inputs from agencies.)