Abhinav Bindra awarded Olympic Order by IOC

File photo of Abhinav Bindra (PTI)

Olympic gold medalist Abhinav Bindra was awarded the Olympic Order by the International Olympic Committee (IOC) on Monday. He was presented the highest recognition for his "oustanding services to the Olympic movement." He will be honoured with the same in a ceremony at the 142nd IOC session, which will take place in Paris on August 10.

Bindra is the first Indian to win a gold medal in an individual event at the Olympic Games. He achieved the feat in the 2008 Beijing Olympics, securing a gold in men's 10m air rifle event. After retiring from the sport post Rio 2016, Bindra has actively promoted sports through his foundation -- "Abhinav Bindra Foundation". The foundation primary focuses on implementing sport science and developing the Indian sports ecosystem.

BREAKING

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Had said in the morning big news for Indian Olympic sport. @Abhinav_Bindra bestowed the Olympic Order- the highest honour by the IOC. Major moment for India. Many congratulations and much deserved. Now that it’s official we can officially say it. @RevSportzGlobal pic.twitter.com/5ld6nLt34m

— Boria Majumdar (@BoriaMajumdar) July 22, 2024

Congratulating the legendary shooter on 'X', sports Minister Mansukh Mandaviya wrote: "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."

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. pic.twitter.com/w8i6Ykr09X

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— Dr Mansukh Mandaviya (@mansukhmandviya) July 22, 2024

What is Olympic Order

The Olympic Order was established in 1975 and is presented to personalities for his/her outstanding services towards the Olympic Movement.

The Order is categorised in three grades -- gold, silver, and bronze. The gold is reserved for the heads of state and exceptional circumstances. The ceremony for the same takes place towards the end of the Games. Nadia Conner, a gymnast and five-time Olympic gold medallist, was honoured with the Order twice. In fact, former India Prime Minister Indira Gandhi was also presented with the gold Olympic Order in 1983.

Nelson Mandela too has been a recipient of the honour in the past.