News Mania Desk/Agnibeena Ghosh/25th July 2024
The International Olympic Committee (IOC) has bestowed the esteemed ‘Olympic Order’ upon India’s celebrated shooter, Abhinav Bindra, marking a moment of immense pride for the nation. This recognition celebrates Bindra’s outstanding contributions to the Olympic Movement, and his achievement has garnered congratulations from Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Home Minister Amit Shah.
Prime Minister Modi expressed his pride and admiration on social media, stating, “It is a matter of pride for every Indian to see Abhinav Bindra awarded the Olympic Order. Congratulations to him. Whether as an athlete or as a mentor to upcoming sportspersons, he has made a noteworthy contribution to sports and the Olympic Movement.” His words reflect the collective pride of the nation in Bindra’s remarkable accomplishments.
Home Minister Amit Shah also extended his congratulations, highlighting Bindra’s continuous inspiration to athletes through his guidance. “Congratulations to Abhinav Bindra on being awarded the Olympic Order. An exemplary performer, Abhinav Bindra continues to inspire athletes with his enlightening guidance. All my best wishes are with him,” Shah remarked. Bindra’s legacy is not only marked by his achievements but also by his ongoing efforts to uplift Indian sports through his mentorship and the Abhinav Bindra Foundation.
The award ceremony will take place during the 142nd IOC Session in Paris on August 10, a day before the closing of the Paris Olympics. This prestigious honor is the highest recognition given by the IOC to individuals who have made significant contributions to the Olympic Movement. Established in 1975, the Olympic Order initially recognized distinguished contributions in gold, silver, and bronze categories. However, a review in 1984 led to the abolition of the silver and bronze categories, making the gold category the sole recognition for exceptional contributions to the Olympic Games.
Bindra, who won the gold medal in the men’s 10m air rifle event at the 2008 Beijing Olympics, remains India’s only individual gold medalist in Olympic history. His historic victory not only brought glory to India but also inspired a generation of athletes. Beyond his athletic achievements, Bindra has been instrumental in promoting sports in India through the Abhinav Bindra Foundation, which aims to elevate the standard of sports and support young athletes.
To date, only 116 individuals worldwide have been honored with the Gold Olympic Order, and Abhinav Bindra is the sole Indian recipient. This prestigious accolade is typically presented during the closing ceremony of each Olympic Games by the IOC, adding to the significance of the award.
The recognition of Bindra’s contributions comes at a time when the 2024 Paris Olympics are set to begin on July 26 and conclude on August 11. His receipt of the Olympic Order not only highlights his personal achievements but also underscores India’s growing presence and influence in the global sporting arena. Bindra’s dedication and passion for sports continue to inspire athletes across the nation, and his recognition by the IOC is a testament to his lasting impact on the Olympic Movement.
As India celebrates this monumental achievement, Abhinav Bindra’s legacy serves as a beacon of excellence and inspiration, encouraging future generations to pursue their dreams with the same dedication and commitment that he has exemplified throughout his career.
