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Olympic shooter Manu Bhaker has been named BBC Indian Sportswoman of the Year for 2024 after a global public vote.
The 22-year-old was recognised for her historic achievement in becoming the first Indian woman to win two medals at a single Olympic Games.
Bhaker became the first Indian woman to win an OIympic medal in shooting when she won bronze in the women’s 10m air pistol in Paris.
Two days later she won a second bronze – alongside Sarabjot Singh in the mixed 10m air pistol.
Bhaker has previously won the BBC’s ISWOTY Emerging Athlete of the Year award.
On accepting her latest award, Bhaker said: “I have had a journey of ups and downs. I hope I can inspire women, all athletes and people with big dreams.
“Your journey doesn’t end if you are struggling. You write your own story.”
Her fellow shooter Avani Lekhara was presented with the BBC ISWOTY Para-sportswoman of the Year award.
The 23-year-old is the first Indian woman to win three Paralympic medals, with gold in Paris following a gold and bronze at Tokyo 2020.
Indian President Droupadi Murmu said: “I appreciate the entire team of the BBC for the praiseworthy initiative of organising BBC Indian Sportswoman of the Year.
“The extraordinary athletes who have been recognised through this initiative have not only excelled in their sports but have also inspired young women to pursue their dreams fearlessly.”
BBC director general Tim Davie, who hosted the awards ceremony, said: “Manu Bhaker’s historic Olympic performance is a defining moment for Indian sports. Her journey from a promising young shooter to a record-breaking Olympian inspires athletes across the country and beyond.
“We are also honoured to celebrate Avani Lekhara as the Para-sportswoman of the Year. Her resilience and record-breaking success continue to pave the way for greater inclusion and excellence in Para-sports.
“The BBC’s commitment to audiences in India makes our relationship here a special one, and we are proud to celebrate the achievements of India’s incredible sportswomen.”
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Archer Sheetal Devi won the Emerging Athlete Award after becoming India’s youngest Paralympic medallist.
The 18-year-old added a bronze medal at the Paris Games to two golds and one silver at the 2022 Asian Para Games, and a silver at the World Para Archery Championships.
Mithali Raj was given the Lifetime Achievement Award for her record 18-year captaincy of the Indian women’s cricket team.
Raj, 42, led the team from 2004 to 2022 and is the longest-serving captain in international cricket history.
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The Collective Newsroom produced and managed the fifth edition of BBC ISWOTY.
Rupa Jha, CEO of Collective Newsroom, said: “I am delighted to see the impact these awards have been bringing to Indian women in sports – amplifying their achievements, breaking barriers, and inspiring future generations.
“These awards are not just about recognition but about creating a lasting impact on the sporting landscape of India and beyond.”
This year’s theme – Champions’ Champions – highlighted the unsung heroes who have supported and shaped medal-winning athletes.
A special documentary featuring the guide runners of blind athletes is available on the BBC’s six Indian language platforms as well on its English outlets.
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