New Delhi: The Indian Olympic Association (IOA) hosted a special felicitation ceremony on Monday at the Taj Man Singh Hotel, New Delhi, to honour the country’s medal-winning athletes from the Paris 2024 Olympic Games.
The prestigious event was attended by Dr. P.T. Usha, President of the IOA, and Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya, Hon’ble Minister of Youth Affairs and Sports, along with senior government officials, national sports federations, sponsors, and members of India’s sporting fraternity. The ceremony celebrated the athletes whose performances in Paris inspired millions and brought immense pride to the nation.
India’s Medal Glory in Paris
India concluded its Paris 2024 Olympics campaign with six medals — one silver and five bronze — marking another successful chapter in the country’s Olympic journey.
- Neeraj Chopra added to his Tokyo triumph, winning silver in the men’s javelin throw, reaffirming his dominance on the global stage.
- Manu Bhaker shone once again with two bronze medals — one in the women’s 10m air pistol event and another in the mixed team event alongside Sarabjot Singh.
- Swapnil Kusale made history by clinching bronze in the men’s 50m rifle 3 positions event.
- Young wrestling sensation Aman Sehrawat earned bronze in men’s freestyle 57kg, becoming one of India’s youngest Olympic medallists.
- The Indian men’s hockey team returned to the podium with a bronze medal, following a 2–1 victory over Spain in the third-place match.
Recognition and Rewards
In recognition of their achievements, the IOA presented cash awards to the medallists and their coaches.
- Neeraj Chopra – ₹75 lakh
- Manu Bhaker – ₹50 lakh (individual) and ₹37.5 lakh (team event)
- Sarabjot Singh – ₹37.5 lakh
- Swapnil Kusale – ₹50 lakh
- Aman Sehrawat – ₹50 lakh
- Indian men’s hockey team – ₹10 lakh (main squad) and ₹5 lakh (reserve players)
Coaches including Dr. Klaus Erich Bartoneitz, Jaspal Rana, Abhishek Rana, Deepali Deshpande, Ali Shabanov, and Craig Fulton were also felicitated for their instrumental roles in shaping India’s Olympic success.
Leaders Congratulate the Champions
Addressing the gathering, Dr. P.T. Usha, President of the IOA, commended the athletes for their determination and excellence.
“I convey my heartfelt congratulations to all our medal winners. Your achievements have brought immense pride and joy to the nation. You stand as symbols of dedication, resilience and the limitless potential of Indian youth. To those athletes who may not have returned with medals, please know that your contribution is equally valued. Your effort, your courage, and your presence at the Olympic Games inspire millions across our country.”
The event concluded with Mr. Raghuram Iyer, CEO of the IOA, extending gratitude to the government, national federations, sponsors, and the Indian public for their unwavering support in nurturing the Olympic movement in India.
As the IOA continues its mission to elevate Indian sport globally, the evening stood as a proud reminder of India’s growing strength and consistency at the world’s biggest sporting stage.
