The International Olympic Committee (IOC) honored Abhinav Bindra, the legendary Indian shooter, with the Olympic Order Award. Prime Minister Narendra Modi took to social media to congratulate the 2008 Beijing Gold medalist on this remarkable achievement.
“It makes every Indian proud that Abhinav Bindra has been awarded the Olympic Order. Congratulations to him. Be it as an athlete or a mentor to upcoming sportspersons, he has made noteworthy contributions to sports and the Olympic Movement,” wrote PM Modi on his X account, formerly known as Twitter.
Bindra officially received the award on Tuesday. The IOC President personally conveyed the news, stating, “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.”
The Highest Honor for Contributions to the Olympic Movement
The Olympic Order Award is the highest honor bestowed upon an individual by the IOC. It recognizes distinguished contributions to the Olympic Movement. A special award ceremony is scheduled to take place in Paris during the 142nd IOC Session on August 10.
Understanding the Olympic Order Award
The Olympic Order was established in 1975 and is considered the pinnacle award of the Olympic Movement. It is specifically granted to individuals for their exceptional contributions to the Olympic Movement. Typically, the IOC presents the Olympic Order to the chief national organizer(s) during the closing ceremony of each respective Olympic Games.
Created nearly 50 years ago by the International Olympic Committee in May 1975, the Olympic Order replaced the Olympic Diploma of Merit. Initially, it had three grades – gold, silver, and bronze. However, at the 87th IOC Session in 1984, held in Sarajevo (Yugoslavia), it was decided that there would no longer be a distinction between the silver and the bronze order. The gold order would continue to be awarded to heads of state and for exceptional circumstances.
This prestigious recognition highlights Abhinav Bindra’s immense impact on the sport of shooting and the broader Olympic Movement. His accomplishments as an athlete and his dedication to mentoring aspiring athletes embody the Olympic spirit.
As the date of the award ceremony approaches, the anticipation grows for this significant event where Abhinav Bindra will be officially honored for his exceptional services to the Olympic Movement. The entire nation awaits this proud moment, celebrating a true sporting legend and an inspiration to future generations.
Conclusion
Abhinav Bindra’s recognition with the Olympic Order Award not only brings pride to the nation but also serves as a testament to his indomitable spirit and relentless pursuit of excellence. His success story continues to inspire aspiring athletes across India. As the award ceremony approaches, the anticipation builds, as the world prepares to acknowledge and honor the remarkable contributions of this shooting legend.
