New Delhi: The Indian Olympic Association (IOA) announced on Thursday the appointments for key officials who will lead India’s contingent at the Paris 2024 Olympic Games. Olympic bronze medallist and renowned boxer MC Mary Kom has been appointed as India’s Chef de Mission for the prestigious event, while table tennis star Achanta Sharath Kamal will carry the Indian flag as the flag-bearer.
Winter Olympian Shiva Keshavan has been named as the Deputy Chef de Mission, as stated by the IOA. These appointments aim to blend experience, expertise, and leadership to ensure the success of India’s athletes on the global stage.
In a statement, the IOA expressed its pride in announcing the appointments, emphasizing Mary Kom’s unparalleled dedication and inspiring journey, making her a natural choice to guide and mentor India’s athletes at the Olympics. Assisting Mary Kom in her crucial role, Shiva Keshavan, a former Olympian in luge, brings a wealth of experience and knowledge to support the team’s management and coordination efforts.
Gagan Narang, a renowned shooting champion and 2012 Olympic bronze medallist in men’s 10m air rifle, will oversee the shooting village operations. His meticulous approach and understanding of athlete needs are expected to ensure a conducive environment for Indian shooters.
Achanta Sharath Kamal, participating in his fifth Olympic Games and a multiple-time medalist at the Commonwealth Games and Asian Games, has been selected to carry the Indian flag with pride and honour as the Flag Bearer, symbolizing the unity and spirit of the Indian contingent competing on the Olympic stage.