Abhinav Bindra, India’s Olympic gold medal-winning shooter, has been awarded the prestigious Olympic Order by the International Olympic Committee (IOC). This accolade recognizes Bindra’s outstanding contributions to the Olympic Movement.
Official Recognition
Bindra will officially receive the Olympic Order during the 142nd IOC Session in Paris on August 10, a day before the closing of the Paris Olympics. The IOC’s letter to Bindra, dated July 20, states, “It is with great pleasure that I inform you that the IOC Executive Board has decided to award you with the Olympic Order for your outstanding services to the Olympic Movement.”
Significance of the Olympic Order
The Olympic Order is the highest award given by the IOC. It is presented to individuals who have made distinguished contributions to the Olympic Movement, either through personal achievements, remarkable merit in the sporting world, or outstanding services to the Olympic cause. The nominations for this honor are proposed by the Olympic Orders Council and decided upon by the Executive Board.
National Pride
Sports Minister Mansukh Mandaviya congratulated Bindra, tweeting, “Congratulations to @Abhinav_Bindra on being awarded the Olympic Order for outstanding contributions to the Olympic Movement! His achievement fills us with pride and is truly well-deserved. His name alone has inspired generations of shooters and Olympians.”
Bindra’s Contributions
Bindra made history by becoming India’s first individual Olympic gold medallist when he won the men’s 10m air rifle event at the 2008 Beijing Games. He has also served the sporting community through various roles:
Member of the Athlete Committee of the International Shooting Sport Federation (ISSF) from 2010 to 2020, serving as its Chair from 2014.
Member of the IOC Athlete Commission since 2018.
Bindra’s recognition with the Olympic Order is a testament to his enduring legacy and remarkable contributions to sports and the Olympic Movement.
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