Paris Olympics: Gagan Narang becomes India’s new Chef-de-Mission, PV Sindhu named as female flag bearer

Four-time Olympian and 2012 Olympic bronze medallist in the men’s 10m Air Rifle event, Gagan Narang, has been appointed as the Chef-de-Mission for the Indian contingent at the Paris 2024 Olympic Games. The Indian Olympic Association (IOA) announced this decision on Monday, selecting Narang to replace the legendary boxer Mary Kom.

“I was looking for an Olympic medallist to lead our contingent, and my young colleague is an apt replacement for Mary Kom,” said IOA President PT Usha in a release.

Alongside this significant change, PT Usha also revealed that badminton star PV Sindhu will be the female flag bearer for India at the Paris Olympics. Sindhu, who is India’s only woman to have won two Olympic medals, will accompany table tennis ace A. Sharath Kamal during the opening ceremony on July 26.

“I am delighted to announce that PV Sindhu will be the female flag bearer alongside Sharath Kamal,” Usha said. “I am confident that our athletes are well prepared to deliver the best results for India in Paris 2024 Olympic Games.”

Mary Kom resignation as Chef de Mission

Mary Kom had earlier stepped down from her position as Chef de Mission, citing personal reasons. In April, the boxing legend sent a letter to IOA President PT Usha, the Union Sports Ministry, and the Sports Authority of India, expressing her regret.

“It is embarrassing for me to retreat from a pronounced commitment, which I seldom do, but I am left with no choice,” Mary Kom wrote. She further explained that personal issues had made it difficult for her to fulfil the role. Despite her efforts to find alternatives, she found it increasingly challenging to leave her family at this time.

Gratitude and Honour

In her letter, Mary Kom conveyed her gratitude for the trust placed in her. “I considered it an honour to serve my country in every way possible and was mentally prepared for it,” she said. However, she ultimately felt compelled to resign due to the problems that had partly crippled her.

Mary Kom’s resignation came just weeks after the IOA had initially appointed her to the position. The IOA had also named winter Olympian Shiva Keshavan as her deputy, highlighting their confidence in her leadership.

Looking forward to Paris Olympics 2024

With Gagan Narang stepping into the role of Chef de Mission, the Indian contingent is set to head to Paris with strong leadership and high hopes. The inclusion of PV Sindhu as a flag bearer alongside Sharath Kamal signifies India’s determination and spirit as they prepare for the upcoming Olympic Games.

The Paris 2024 Olympics promise to be an exciting and challenging event for the Indian athletes, and with dedicated leaders like Gagan Narang and celebrated athletes like PV Sindhu and Sharath Kamal at the forefront, India aims to make a significant impact on the global stage.