Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday, July 28, congratulated shooter Manu Bhaker after she opened India's medal tally at the Paris Olympics. The 22-year-old made history by becoming the first Indian female shooter to win an Olympic medal, earning a bronze in the women's 10m air pistol event at the Chateauroux Shooting Centre.

Manu narrowly missed the silver, finishing just behind two South Korean competitors in the highly competitive event. PM Modi praised her resilience, noting how she overcame a significant setback at the Tokyo Olympics in 2021, where a pistol malfunction affected her performance.

"Congratulations, Manu. Your victory brings immense joy. Missing the silver by one point doesn't overshadow your achievement of making India proud as the first Indian woman to win an Olympic shooting medal," PM Modi said during a telephonic conversation with Bhaker.

Recalling her difficulties in Tokyo, where she failed to qualify for the finals in any of her three events due to the malfunction, Modi lauded Bhaker's perseverance. Despite contemplating quitting the sport last year, Bhaker fought back to achieve glory in Paris.

PM Modi encouraged her to aim for more medals, expressing confidence that her breakthrough success would boost her performance in the remaining events. Bhaker is set to compete in the 25m pistol, one of her strongest events, and the mixed team 10m air pistol event with Sarobjit Singh.

"I am confident you will excel in your upcoming events. This strong start will boost your confidence and make India even prouder," Modi added. "I have also ensured the best possible arrangements for all athletes."

Manu Bhaker joins the ranks of Indian shooting legends Abhinav Bindra, Rajyavardhan Singh Rathore, Vijay Kumar, and Gagan Narang as an Olympic medalist. Her achievement also ends India's 12-year wait for an Olympic shooting medal.