After Tokyo-Rio debacle, here is why Indian shooters can throw surprise at Paris Olympics

After the disappointment of the last two Olympics (Rio 2016 and Tokyo 2020), where Indian shooters failed to win a single medal, the country is pinning its hopes on a strong performance at the Paris Olympics Games. A larger-than-ever contingent of 22 shooters is set to compete, and the selection process has been rigorous, ensuring only the best-prepared athletes make the cut.

New era for Indian shooting at Paris Olympics

The Indian shooting team has undergone a significant transformation in recent years. A new selection policy, featuring multiple trials under challenging conditions, has pushed athletes to their limits. The result is a squad brimming with confidence and determination.

“This is the best way to see who is in form,” Olympic gold medallist Abhinav Bindra had said. “If this policy works, nothing like it.”

The trials have also provided opportunities for younger shooters to showcase their talent. Manu Bhaker, a rising star in pistol shooting, believes the rigorous process has prepared her well for the intense pressure of the Olympics. “I worked really hard for the trials and shot well,” she said. “It is because of these trials I will be representing India in three events in Paris.”

Government support and world-class facilities

The Indian government has shown unprecedented support for the shooting team, providing ample resources and facilities. The shooters have access to world-class training grounds and the services of personal coaches.

Manu Bhaker’s personal coach, Jaspal Rana has helped her out immensely.

The shooting range in Chateauroux, where the Olympic competition will take place, is considered one of the best in the world. The Indian shooters have been exposed to similar conditions during their training, giving them an edge over their competitors.

Indian Shooting Team: Strong Contender

With a talented squad and meticulous preparation, India is poised to challenge for medals in multiple shooting events. Athletes like Aishwarya Pratap Singh Tomar, Elavenil Valarivan, and Anjum Moudgil are in peak form and are considered strong medal prospects.

The inclusion of mixed team events has also increased India’s chances of winning medals. With a strong focus and the right mindset, the Indian shooting team can make history at the Paris Olympics.

List of Indian Shooters at Paris Olympics

Rifle

Men’s 10m air rifle: Sandeep Singh, Arjun Babuta.

Women’s 10m air rifle: Elavenil Valarivan, Ramita Jindal.

Women’s 50m rifle 3 positions: Sift Kaur Samra, Anjum Moudgil.

Men’s 50m rifle 3 positions: Aishwary Pratap Singh Tomar, Swapnil Kusale.

10m air rifle mixed team: Sandeep Singh/Elavenil Valarivan, Arjun Babuta/Ramita Jindal.

Pistol

Men’s 10m air pistol: Sarabjot Singh, Arjun Cheema.

Women’s 10m air pistol: Manu Bhaker, Rhythm Sangwan.

Men’s 25m rapid fire pistol: Anish Bhanwala, Vijayveer Sidhu.

Women’s 25m pistol: Manu Bhaker, Esha Singh.

10m air pistol mixed team: Sarabjot Singh/Manu Bhaker, Arjun Singh Cheema/Rhythm Sangwan.

Shotgun

Men’s trap: Prithviraj Tondaiman.

Women’s trap: Rajeshwari Kumari, Shreyasi Singh.

Men’s skeet: Anantjeet Singh Naruka.

Women’s skeet: Maheshwari Chauhan, Raiza Dhillon.

Skeet mixed team: Anantjeet Singh Naruka/Maheshwari Chauhan.

The stage is set for an exciting shooting competition at the Paris Olympics. India’s shooters are determined to end the country’s medal drought and bring home the coveted gold.