Gagan Narang Hopes India Surpasses Tokyo Olympics Medal Tally in Paris

India’s chef de mission, Gagan Narang, is optimistic about India surpassing its previous medal tally from the Tokyo Olympics at the upcoming Paris Summer Games. In Tokyo, India won seven medals: one gold, two silver, and four bronze. This time, with a contingent of 117 athletes, India aims to achieve double digits in medals for the first time in Summer Games history.

On the eve of the opening ceremony, Narang shared his thoughts on India’s chances, saying, “Hoping for the best.” He acknowledged the constant pressure athletes face at the Olympics but believes it can be channeled into positive performances. “There is absolute pressure in the Olympics. You can’t not have pressure. But pressure is not bad. I think you should be able to handle it and channel it towards positive performances,” Narang remarked.

In shooting, 21 Indian shooters will participate, the largest contingent ever fielded by India in any Games. Narang, who won a bronze medal in the 2012 London Olympics, believes today’s shooters are better due to improved support and conditions. “Times have changed; they are better than us. The conditions and support that they are getting are the best,” he said.

As chef de mission, Narang’s primary goal is to provide comfort and meet the needs of all athletes. “As an athlete, I have been performing for the country. As chef de mission, my role is to perform for the athletes to be able to give them all kinds of comforts and requirements that they need,” he explained.