Haryana Leads with Highest Representation
A 117-member strong Indian contingent has reached France to participate in the 2024 Paris Olympics, beginning their quest for coveted medals. Among all the states, Haryana boasts the highest number of athletes, with 24 participants. This is a testament to Haryana’s robust sports culture and consistent performance in producing top-tier athletes. Punjab follows closely with 19 athletes, showcasing its strong presence in the national sports landscape.
Odisha Among the Lowest
On the other end of the spectrum, Odisha has one of the lowest representations, with only two athletes competing: Amit Rohidas in men’s hockey and Kishore Jena in men’s javelin throw. This low representation highlights the disparity in sports infrastructure and development across different states. Other states with similarly low participation include Assam, Bihar, Goa, and Jharkhand, each sending only one athlete to the Olympics.
Representation from Other States
A detailed look at the state-wise distribution reveals a varied representation across the country:
Tamil Nadu: 13 athletes
Uttar Pradesh: 7 athletes
Karnataka: 7 athletes
Kerala: 6 athletes
Maharashtra: 5 athletes
Delhi, Telangana, Uttarakhand: 4 athletes each
West Bengal: 3 athletes
Rajasthan, Manipur, Madhya Pradesh, Gujarat, Chandigarh: 2 athletes each
This diverse representation underscores the widespread talent and potential across different regions, contributing to the national contingent.
High Hopes and Expectations
India’s performance in the last Olympic Games held in Tokyo in 2021 was commendable, with the country securing seven medals. Neeraj Chopra’s gold medal in men’s javelin throw was a significant highlight, making him a strong contender to repeat his feat at the Paris Games. Additionally, there are big expectations from other prominent athletes, including PV Sindhu in badminton, Lovlina Borgohain in boxing, Achanta Sharath Kamal in table tennis, and Manu Bhaker in shooting.
Building on Past Success
The athletes’ preparations and the support from various states reflect a growing emphasis on sports development in India. The Indian contingent aims to build on the successes of previous Olympics and improve the country’s standing in the global sports arena. The diversity in representation also points to the increasing reach of sports programs and the nurturing of talent across the nation.
The 2024 Paris Olympics will be a significant event for Indian athletes, with a diverse group representing the country. While states like Haryana and Punjab lead with the highest number of participants, states like Odisha and others with fewer representatives still bring hopes of medal-winning performances. As India looks to enhance its medal tally and showcase its growing sports prowess, the collective efforts of athletes from various states will play a crucial role in the country’s Olympic journey.
(With inputs from agencies)
