NEW DELHI: Indian Olympic medallist and pistol shooter Manu Bhaker has detailed the inspirational guidance she has received from Prime Minister Narendra Modi throughout her sporting career.
The 22-year-old athlete made history at the 2024 Paris Olympics, becoming the first Indian to win two medals in a single Olympic edition post-independence. She clinched bronzes in the women's 10m air pistol and the Mixed 10m Air Pistol event with Sarabjot Singh, also becoming the first Indian woman to secure a medal in an individual shooting event at the Games.
Manu first interacted with PM Modi when she was 16, after her gold medal win at the 2018 Commonwealth Games. She recollects the Prime Minister's genuine interest in her career and his words of encouragement during their meeting.
"During the interaction, he took me aside and said, 'You are very young. You will achieve even greater success and reach out to me whenever you need anything.' This was a great source of motivation for me," Manu recalled.
After her disappointing campaign at the Tokyo Olympics due to a pistol malfunction that dashed her hopes of securing a medal, PM Modi personally reached out to Manu. He offered her words of encouragement, discussing her future plans and urging her to remain confident and focused on her goals.
"PM Modi told me to be confident and focus on my goal. He keeps track of every detail about each player," Manu noted.
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Manu believes that PM Modi’s support extends beyond celebrating victories; he takes a proactive role in nurturing and supporting athletes regardless of the outcome. His personal interactions and genuine concern for their well-being make athletes feel appreciated and inspired. Manu emphasized how the Prime Minister's involvement in both their triumphs and challenges has impacted her and other athletes.
After her historic bronze medal win in the women's 10m air pistol at the Paris Olympics, PM Modi personally congratulated her, reinforcing his commitment to supporting India's sporting talent.
