Indian shooting sensation Manu Bhaker meets Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann after Paris Olympics 2024 heroics

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The two-time bronze medal winner Manu Bhaker recently met with Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann after returning to India following her Paris Olympics 2024 heroics. During the interaction, she discussed the significance of equal opportunities in sports and the role leaders can play in fostering this change.

During the first week of the Games, Manu made history by clinching medals in the 10m air pistol individual and mixed team events with Sarabjot Singh, earning widespread acclaim. However, she narrowly missed a podium finish in the 25m pistol event, finishing on fourth.

"It felt really great to speak to him. He is someone who is enthusiastic about sports and it felt really nice to know all the developments he ensured for the state. He also shared his insights and plans, not only just for Punjab but Haryana as well," said Manu after meeting Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann.

"I was not really aware of the facilities that he had arranged for the athletes of Punjab and Haryana but it felt so good to know about the things he had planned, " Manu added

Manu, who became the first female shooter to bring in a medal for shooting, stressed the need for both men and women to progress together in sports.

She remarked, "It's important that everyone, regardless of gender, is given an equal chance to succeed. I've been fortunate to receive many opportunities, but not everyone is as lucky."

She expressed optimism about the future, saying, "I believe society is changing for the better, and I hope to see many more women participating in sports over the next decade. I'm committed to doing my part to support this change."

Manu Bhaker has also been chosen as India's flag bearer at the Paris 2024 Olympics Closing Ceremony, which will be held on August 11. She will be joined by custodian PR Sreejesj, who bid farewell to the India Hockey team after claiming a bronze at the Paris Olympics.