Manu Bhaker's Bronze Triumph Inspires a Generation

Sports Minister Mansukh Mandaviya lauds Manu Bhaker for her historic twin bronze medals at the Paris Olympics, inspiring future athletes. Bhaker, the first Indian to achieve this feat, was warmly welcomed back home before returning to Paris for the closing ceremony as a flag-bearer.

Sports Minister Mansukh Mandaviya praised Manu Bhaker's twin bronze medals at the Paris Olympics on Thursday, saying her achievement will inspire future young athletes to aim for glory.

At 22, Bhaker became the first Indian athlete to win two medals in a single Olympics, earning a bronze in women's 10m air pistol and in the 10m air pistol mixed team event with Sarabjot Singh. She also became the first Indian female shooter to win an Olympic medal.

'I met @realmanubhaker, who returned home after winning two bronze medals at ParisOlympics2024. I congratulated her for this historic victory,' Mandaviya wrote on 'X,' sharing photos with Bhaker, her father Ram Kishan, and coach Jaspal Rana.

Bhaker received a warm welcome at IGI Airport amid a steady drizzle from hundreds of supporters. She will return to Paris to participate in the closing ceremony on Sunday as one of India's flag-bearers.

(With inputs from agencies.)