India concluded its Paris 2024 Olympic campaign with six medals, finishing 71st in the overall medal tally. The country’s haul included one silver and five bronze medals, slightly less than its performance in Tokyo 2020.
Neeraj Chopra clinched a silver in javelin throw, becoming only the third Indian to win consecutive individual Olympic medals. The shooting team made a strong comeback, with Manu Bhaker securing two bronze medals in pistol events. Swapnil Kusale added another bronze in rifle shooting.
Wrestler Aman Sehrawat contributed a bronze medal, while the men’s hockey team successfully defended their bronze from Tokyo.
However, the Games also saw several near misses for India. Six fourth-place finishes across various sports, including shooting, archery, badminton, and weightlifting, left fans heartbroken. Boxer Vinesh Phogat’s disqualification from the women’s 50kg final due to being overweight was particularly disappointing.
Despite falling short of matching the Tokyo medal count, the performance highlights India’s growing competitiveness in international sports. The government’s investment through programs like Target Olympic Podium Scheme (TOPS) has shown results, but also raises questions about how to convert near misses into medals in future Games.
As India considers bidding for the 2036 Olympics, the Paris experience offers valuable lessons in athlete support and national sporting culture.
