Context:

• In a remarkable celebration of female athleticism, Manu Bhaker, a 22-year-old shooter from Haryana, has been honored as the BBC Indian Sportswoman of the Year for 2024.

Key Points:

• This prestigious accolade recognizes her exceptional achievements in the realm of shooting, particularly her groundbreaking performance at the Paris 2024 Olympics, where she made history by becoming the first Indian woman to secure two medals in a single Olympic event.
• Her accolades include a bronze medal in the women's 10m air pistol and another bronze in the mixed 10m air pistol event, which she clinched alongside fellow shooter Sarabjot Singh.

The significance of the BBC Indian Sportswoman of the Year Award

• The BBC Indian Sportswoman of the Year (ISWOTY) award is an annual event that aims to celebrate the accomplishments of female athletes in India.
• The selection process is rigorous, involving nominations from a panel of esteemed sports journalists, followed by public voting to determine the winner. In its fifth edition, the 2024 nominees included a host of distinguished athletes such as golfer Aditi Ashok, para-shooter Avani Lekhara, cricketer Smriti Mandhana, and wrestler Vinesh Phogat.
• This year’s theme, "Champions' Champions," emphasized the importance of recognizing not only the athletes but also those who support them behind the scenes.

Manu Bhaker: A journey of dedication and excellence

• Born on March 18, 2002, in Jhajjar, Haryana, Manu Bhaker's foray into shooting began at a young age.
• Her innate talent and unwavering dedication quickly propelled her through the ranks of competitive shooting. Bhaker's breakthrough moment came in 2018 when she won gold at the ISSF World Cup, establishing herself as one of India's most promising young shooters.
• Her journey has been marked by resilience, hard work, and an unyielding spirit, qualities that have defined her career thus far.
• At the Paris 2024 Olympics, Bhaker's historic achievement of winning two bronze medals not only marked a personal milestone but also elevated India's standing in international shooting competitions.
• Her performance has inspired countless young athletes, particularly women, to pursue their dreams in sports. Upon receiving the award, Bhaker articulated her desire to motivate others, stating, "Your journey does not end if you face challenges; you are the author of your own narrative." This sentiment resonates deeply in a country where female athletes often face significant hurdles.