essay on asian games 2023

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Empowering Sports Policies Lead India to Success in Asian Games 2023

• This article is based on an Editorial “ The secret to India’s Asian Games 2023 success? An empowering sports policy ” which was published in the Indian Express. In the recently concluded 19th Asian Games 2023, India performed its best -ever in medal tally. 

Key Highlights of Asian Games 2023

• At the Asian Games 2023 in Hangzhou, China, India set a new record, With an unprecedented haul of 107 medals (28 gold, 38 silvers and 41 bronze).
• At the Asian Games 2023, India hit a historic 100+ medal mark,  By doing so,India became the only fourth country after China (383), Japan (188) and the Republic of Korea (190) to win 100 or more medals in a single edition of the Asian Games.
• At the Asian Games 2023, Indian athletics scored big, with a total of 29 medals – six gold, 14 silver and nine bronze.
• The India men’s hockey team won the gold medal in Asian Games 2023 and booked a Paris Olympics berth with a 5-1 thrashing of Japan.
• Asian Games 2023 saw two medal sports make their debut: Breakdancing and e-sport. 
• Apart from them, Cricket, and board games – Chess, Xiangqi, and Go returned to Asian Games in this edition.

What are the most important factors to achieving excellence in sport?

• Achieving excellence in sports necessitates not only substantial socio-economic progress but also a large talent pool that has access to high-quality sports infrastructure and resources.  
• Effectively participating population.

What are the challenges in sports in India?

• Ineffective Participation: There is a lack of adequate and effective sports participation and preparing Olympic-level sports talent. 
• Inadequate Infrastructure & Accessibility: There is a lack of availability of proper sports infrastructure in India, particularly in educational institutions and in underdeveloped states like Bihar, Jharkhand, and Odisha. 
• Inability to Mobilize the Requisite Resources: Research suggests that it is well observed in developing countries. Example, Argentina and Brazil, which excel in team sports, lag in individual athletic and swimming events due to immobilization of adequate resources.
• Underutilisation of Resources and Infrastructure: The Standing Committee on Human Resource Development noted in 2019 that, despite substantial allocations of Rs 500 crore to the Khelo India scheme in 2019-20, the actual expenditure was only Rs 318 crore. 
• Inherent Governance Challenges : Corruption and a lack of ethical conduct. 
• Other Challenges: Shortage of coaching staff, gender disparities, and difficulties in attracting support from the private sector. 

Also read: Doping In Indian Sports: NADA’s Ineffectiveness Exposed

What are the Government initiatives to promote sports in India?

• High Budget Allocation: The budgetary allocation for the Union Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports, nearly doubled from 2014-15 to 2023-24, reaching approximately Rs 3,400 crores, in which over two-thirds of this budget allocation is designated for the Department of Sports. 
• Khelo India Scheme: It has played a pivotal role in providing opportunities to approximately 23 lakh school children, identifying potential talent that can be nurtured and developed further. It offers a source of income for local sporting talent by involving them as sports coaches.
• FIT India Movement: Concerted efforts to instill a culture of sports and fitness from an early age.
• National Education Policy 2020: It provided for the incorporation of sports with study.
• Champion athletes like P V Sindhu and Sakshi Malik have been its beneficiaries.

Significance

• Domestically, stellar sports performance has vital consequences. 
• Social Mobility: A country that is able to win more medals in sports is also able to foster talent in other areas, enabling social mobility. 

The Path Ahead

• Ensuring accessible sports participation and preparing Olympic-level sports talent. 
• Adequate long-term mobilization of public expenditure and resources to make sports participation accessible.
• Access to basic and necessary infrastructure. 
• The state must bear the recurring expenses associated with maintaining the necessary governance and implementation machinery. 

India’s record-breaking performance at the Asian Games 2023 reflects the success of empowering sports policies, such as Khelo India and the Target Olympic Podium Scheme, but challenges like inadequate infrastructure and governance issues still need focused attention for sustained excellence in sports.

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It was the summer of 1948 at the London Olympic Games when a brief conversation sprouted between People’s Republic of China, India and Philippines about the restoration of the Eastern Champion Games in Asia. The Champion Games had been cancelled for nearly 10 years because of the uprising tensions that spur between different nations due to destruction caused by the World War II. The conversation gave rise to the Asian Games Federation that was inaugurated in the capital city- New Delhi. The first ever Asian Games was held in the year of 1953 in Delhi. Throughout these years, nine countries have so far hosted the Asian Games and what started with a participation of 11 countries has now led into a mammoth of games which is subsequently marked by 40 sport events with a massive participation of 41 countries in the city of Hangzhou.

The Asian Games commenced from 23rd September and will go on till 8 October, 2023. India has so far achieved 56 medals- 13 gold medals, 21 silver medals and 22 bronze medals and has landed on fourth position behind the countries of China, Republic of Korea and Japan.

• Shooting: 22- 7 gold, 9 silver and 6 bronze • Athletics: 12- 2 gold, 5 silver and 5 bronze • Cricket: 1 gold • Sailing: 3- 1 silver and 2 bronze • Wushu: 1 silver • Boxing: 1 bronze • Equestrian: 2- 1 gold and 1 bronze • Rowing: 5- 2 silver and 3 bronze • Table Tennis: 1 bronze • Roller Skating: 2- bronze • Golf: 1- silver • Badminton: 1 bronze • Squash: 2- 1 gold and 1 bronze • Tennis: 2- 1 gold and 1 bronze

This year was different for our nation as it reflected the country’s dominance in athletics and hockey. There was a time when Pakistan had dominated its power in hockey by being one of the strongest attacking teams. Although, India’s badminton team had to settle with a bronze medal after the nerve-chilling win of Lakhya Sen in the badminton court. Aditi Ashok won the historic silver medal for her outshining performance in the golf tournament after a commendable performance in the Tokyo Olympics where she finished at fourth position. Suthirtha Mukherjee and Ayhika Mukherjee finished third at the table tennis and grabbed the bronze medal creating history at Asian Games, 2023. Ancy Sojan took the silver medal in women’s long jump on 2nd October, 2023.

There is still a week left for the curtains to go down in the Asian Games, but still India has a number of opportunities to win a series of further medals. The much-awaited javelin throw starring Neeraj Chopra would take place on October 4th at 4:35 pm IST. Apart from these events, India is also expecting more medals from the individual squash tournament, men’s hockey, long jump, cricket, kabaddi and relay (both men and women) tournaments as well.

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China goes on charm offensive at Asian Games, but doesn’t back down from regional confrontations

Chinese volunteers stand at a shuttle bus hub at the 19th Asian Games in Hangzhou, China, Tuesday, Sept. 26, 2023. Signs around Hangzhou billed the city as a “paradise on earth” while China adopted the motto “heart to heart” for the games, which attract feature some 12,000 competitors, more than the summer Olympics, from across Asia and the Middle East. (AP Photo/Aaron Favila)

Medal hostesses prepare for an award ceremony for the Wushu competition at the 19th Asian Games in Hangzhou, China, Tuesday, Sept. 26, 2023. Regional outward aggression has taken a backseat to unctuous charm as China sought to win the hearts of more than 40 Asian nations and regions by dazzling them with technology and slathering them with praise. (AP Photo/Ng Han Guan)

Volunteers hold up banners with the slogan “Heart to Heart” to block the view as medics attend to Iran’s Mina Panahi Dorcheh who injured her leg in the Wushu Women’s Nanquan competition for the 19th Asian Games in Hangzhou, China, Tuesday, Sept. 26, 2023. Regional outward aggression has taken a backseat to unctuous charm as China sought to win the hearts of more than 40 Asian nations and regions by dazzling them with technology and slathering them with praise. (AP Photo/Ng Han Guan)

People walk inside the media village at the 19th Asian Games in Hangzhou, China, Tuesday, Sept. 26, 2023. Signs around Hangzhou billed the city as a “paradise on earth” while China adopted the motto “heart to heart” for the two-week games, which attract feature some 12,000 competitors - more than the summer Olympics - from across Asia and the Middle East. (AP Photo/Aaron Favila)

Chinese President Xi Jinping attends the opening ceremony of the 19th Asian Games in Hangzhou, China, Saturday, Sept. 23, 2023. (AP Photo/Lee Jin-man)

A Chinese volunteer talks to reporters to inform them about it’s departure time at a shuttle bus hub at the 19th Asian Games in Hangzhou, China, Tuesday, Sept. 26, 2023. Signs around Hangzhou billed the city as a “paradise on earth” while China adopted the motto “heart to heart” for the games, which attract feature some 12,000 competitors, more than the summer Olympics, from across Asia and the Middle East. (AP Photo/Aaron Favila)

Artists perform as live pictures of Chinese President Xi Jinping waving the spectators are displayed on a large screen during the during the opening ceremony of the 19th Asian Games in Hangzhou, China, Saturday, Sept. 23, 2023. (AP Photo/Aijaz Rahi)

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HANGZHOU, China (AP) — A month before the Asian Games, China released a new national map , doubling down on its claims to almost the entire South China Sea and disputed border territories with India.

A few days before the event, it flew more than 100 warplanes toward Taiwan, stepping up its regular military harassment of the self-governing democratic island that Beijing claims for its own.

At the games themselves , however, outward aggression has taken a backseat to unctuous charm as China sought to win the hearts of more than 40 Asian nations and regions by dazzling them with technology and slathering them with praise.

In a personal appearance in the eastern city of Hangzhou, into which the government poured billions of dollars for the two-week games, Chinese President Xi Jinping welcomed leaders and officials at an opening banquet on Saturday.

“The Asian Games embodies the Asian people’s shared desire for peace, unity and inclusiveness,” Xi told them, according to his prepared remarks.

No mention was made of the status of Taiwan, the tense standoffs in the South China Sea over competing claims with Indonesia, Vietnam, Malaysia, Brunei and the Philippines - all competitors at the Hangzhou games - or the border disputes with India that resulted in a clash three years ago in which 20 Indian and four Chinese soldiers were killed.

Nor was anything said about a diplomatic spat China ignited with India the day before Saturday’s opening ceremony as it refused to back down on its stance on visas for Indian athletes coming from a region that leaders maintain belongs to China, resulting in three women wushu athletes being unable to compete.

Taiwan’s athletes even received one of the loudest rounds of applause at the opening ceremony, though have to compete under the name “Chinese Taipei” and without their flag due to China’s claim on the island off of its east coast, which it has not ruled out taking by force.

Signs around Hangzhou billed the city as a “paradise on earth” while China adopted the motto “heart to heart” for the Asian Games, which feature some 12,000 competitors - more than the summer Olympics - from across Asia and the Middle East.

“This will undoubtedly open new prospects for cultural exchanges, cultural integration and people-to-people bonds in Asia,” the Chinese Communist Party’s official People’s Daily wrote Monday in an effusive editorial about the Hangzhou games. “It will inject profound and lasting cultural strength into the building of a community with a shared future for mankind.”

The headlines the state-run China Daily’s supplement edition for the games carried after the opening ceremony included “Xi extends hand of friendship,” and “Wave of Glory” alongside a photo of the Chinese leader waving to the crowds.

Xi told the officials at Saturday’s banquet that the region’s recent economic growth had been an “Asian miracle” and that “we should make Asia an anchor of world peace.”

But while offering a verbal carrot in Hangzhou, Beijing continued brandishing a physical stick elsewhere. Taiwan’s military said Sunday it had detected the Chinese military initiating an exercise featuring warplanes, ships and ground troops in coastal Fujian Province, which faces Taiwan.

The Philippine coast guard reported over the weekend that it had detected a floating barrier placed by China’s coast guard to prevent Filipino fishing boats from entering a lagoon in a disputed shoal in the South China Sea.

The Philippines removed the barrier on Monday. Chinese Foreign Ministry Spokesman Wang Wenbin told reporters Tuesday that China’s “resolve to safeguard its sovereignty and maritime rights” was unwavering, and he warned “the Philippines not to make provocations or seek trouble.”

Xi’s banquet speech did not refer to any territorial claims or confrontations, nor to the mounting tensions with the U.S. and its allies as Beijing and Washington jockey for influence in the Asia-Pacific region

Still, geopolitics were clearly not far from his Xi’s mind as he outlined China’s goals, thinly veiling his remarks with the language of sport.

“As a community with a shared future connected by mountains and rivers as well as cultural affinity, we should use sports to promote peace, pursue good neighborliness and mutual benefit, and reject Cold War mentality and bloc confrontation,” he said, using language China commonly does when referring to the U.S.’s Asia-Pacific strategy.

“As humanity faces unprecedented global challenges, we should use sports to promote unity, seize the historic opportunity, and jointly stand up to the challenges,” Xi said.

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2023 Asian Games- What is behind India’s Success?

From Current Affairs Notes for UPSC » Editorials & In-depths » This topic

The 19th Asian Games have recently concluded, filling India with immense pride due to its unprecedented success in medals. This isn’t a simple stroke of luck but a reflection of India’s long-term vision and investment in sports. While this achievement deserves applause, it also brings to the forefront the path yet to be traversed for India to cement its place as a sports powerhouse.

This topic of “2023 Asian Games- What is behind India’s Success?” is important from the perspective of the UPSC IAS Examination , which falls under General Studies Portion.

Understanding Sports Success

• Basic Needs : People can only actively engage in sports when they have their primary necessities met, including healthcare, education, and nutrition.
• Access to Infrastructure : Even with the capability to participate, the absence of sports infrastructure can hinder potential talent.
• State’s responsibility to bear both setup and maintenance costs for infrastructure.
• Developing nations might find it tough to consistently invest due to financial constraints, leading to a lack in certain sports categories.

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India’s Recent Sporting Achievements

• Strong performances across diverse sports in 2022 Commonwealth Games and 2021 Summer Deaflympics.
• Promising outcomes in sports like women’s hockey, javelin throw, relay race, squash, and badminton.

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Factors behind India’s Success

• Socio-Economic Progress : India’s progression in crucial areas like poverty reduction, improved literacy, healthcare access, stable political environment, and economic growth rate has laid the foundation for its sports achievements.
• The Union Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports’ budget allocation has almost doubled from 2014-15 to 2023-24.
• Majority of this budget is dedicated to the Department of Sports, signifying a commitment towards nurturing world-class talent.
• Khelo India Scheme : A major scheme that has played a pivotal role in spotting talent from school children and making sports more inclusive.
• FIT India Movement and National Education Policy 2020 : Initiatives to promote sports culture from an early age.
• Target Olympic Podium Scheme (TOPS) : Provides comprehensive support to elite athletes.

Challenges & Gaps

• Governance Issues : Cases of corruption and misconduct in sports governing bodies.
• Limited access to high-quality sports infrastructure, especially in certain states.
• Underutilisation of allocated funds, like in the case of Khelo India scheme.
• Other Challenges : Shortage of coaching staff, gender disparities, and challenges in obtaining private sector support.

Way Forward

India needs to address the existing challenges to make sports a mass movement. The country has the potential to build on its recent successes, but it requires a comprehensive strategy. Enhanced focus on sports, especially the non-mainstream ones, more investment, and efficient resource utilization are crucial.

India’s rise in sports signifies not just victories in competitions but an enhancement of its soft power. India’s story, from struggling to meet basic needs to now being able to invest in sports development, speaks volumes about its journey. While the journey till now has been commendable, with the right efforts, India can surely create more milestones in the global sports arena in the near future.

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What are the factors behind India’s recent success in sports? What more needs to be done? (250 words)

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India Shines with Over 100 Glittering Medals in the Glorious Saga of Asian Games, Yet China’s Dominance Persists

October 9, 2023

• China was in total dominance with 200+ gold medals whereas the rest of the countries struggled to win 100 medals in total.
• India dominated the games like cricket and badminton dual, which was included for the first time in the history of the Asian Games.

The 19th edition of the Asian Games 2023 has drawn to a close, leaving behind a treasure trove of cherished memories for the Indian contingent. India achieved a remarkable milestone, securing over 100 medals, a historic first in the annals of Asian Games history.

Among our standout performers, Neeraj Chopra demonstrated his mastery in the javelin event, securing a gold medal and maintaining his reign as champion. Archery was another shining beacon for India, with a remarkable sweep of all five gold medals in their respective categories. Indian athletes exhibited their dominance in the world of Kabaddi, while the spotlight also fell on our accomplished shooters, who claimed an impressive seven gold medals.

The inclusion of cricket and dual badminton in this edition offered a unique opportunity for Indian athletes to shine. Both the men’s and women’s cricket teams left no room for doubt as they clinched the gold medal with resounding victories. Badminton witnessed history in the making, with Chirag Shetty and Satwiksairaj Rankireddy securing India’s inaugural men’s doubles gold at the Games.

The Indian Men’s Hockey team emerged as champions, not only clinching the gold but also securing six coveted spots for the Paris 2024 Olympics out of the 74 available.

While India’s athletes delivered stellar performances, it is impossible to overlook the host country’s astounding dominance. They amassed an astonishing total of 383 medals, a feat only matched by three other nations, with India proudly claiming the fourth position, having secured a grand total of 107 medals.

Here are the medal standings:

All the participants have delivered an exceptional performance over the past 15 days, contributing to the grandeur of this 19th edition of the Asian Games 2023. Numerous memorable moments have been etched onto the field, destined to linger in the collective memory of nations. Additionally, each participating nation recognized the significance of this opportunity with an eye on the Paris 2024 Olympics. A total of 74 spots were up for grabs across nine sports, and as it stands, 48 spots remain unclaimed.

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Asian Games 2023: A Vibrant Closing Ceremony Marking India's Best Ever Performance| Details

The Hangzhou Asian Games 2023 concluded with a vibrant closing ceremony that celebrated the remarkable achievements of athletes and showcased China's cultural heritage.

HISTORICALLY, INDIA'S BEST-EVER PERFORMANCE IN ASIAN GAMES TILL NOW:

At the 19th edition of the Asian Games held in Hangzhou, China, Indian athletes showcased an exceptional performance characterized by determination and excellence. India's contingent of 655 participants achieved an astonishing feat, securing a total of 107 medals, surpassing their previous record of 70 medals set in Jakarta in 2018.

India's remarkable medal tally included 28 gold, 38 silver, and 41 bronze medals, a significant improvement compared to the 70 medals won by a smaller 570-athlete team four years ago. India's contribution to the medal count was particularly notable, as only four nations managed to cross the 100-medal mark in Hangzhou.

Indian shooters were among the standout performers, claiming a total of 22 medals, including seven golds. Athletics also had its moment of glory, with Neeraj Chopra successfully defending his javelin throw title. In total, track and field events contributed six gold, 14 silver, and nine bronze medals to India's tally.

Archery added another feather to India's cap, as the compound team secured all five gold medals available in their category. The cricket and kabaddi teams continued the gold rush, with each winning two gold medals. The men's hockey team not only brought home the gold but also secured coveted spots for the Paris 2024 Olympics.

In badminton, Chirag Shetty and Satwiksairaj Rankireddy's victory marked India's inaugural men's doubles gold at the Games. India's gold medal count was further bolstered by successes in squash, tennis, and equestrian events. Both the men's and women's cricket teams clinched gold medals.

However, the significance of Hangzhou extended beyond the medal count. The event served as a gateway to the Paris 2024 Olympics, offering 74 quotas across various sports. India secured six of these quotas, with boxing leading the way.

Athletes such as Nikhat Zareen, Preeti Pawar, Parveen Hooda, and Lovlina Borgohain earned their tickets to Paris. Athletics and men's hockey also contributed to India's strong representation in the French capital, ensuring that the nation will be well-represented at the upcoming Olympic Games.

A VIBRANT CLOSING CEREMONY:

The event, held at the 'Big Lotus' Stadium with a capacity of 80,000, captivated spectators with a 75-minute spectacle of lights, sounds, and lasers. Athletes from the 45 participating countries bid farewell, marking the end of over two weeks of intense sporting competition.

The closing ceremony was a fusion of sports and culture, aiming to create a harmonious blend of 'Culture and Sports.'

Acting chief of the Olympic Council of Asia (OCA), Randhir Singh, officially declared the 19th edition of the Asian Games closed in the presence of Chinese Premier Li Qiang and other dignitaries.

Singh stated, "I declare the 19th Hangzhou Asian Games closed and, following tradition, call upon the youth of Asia to gather in three years' time in Aichi-Nagoya, Japan, to celebrate the 20th Asian Games, per the ideals of the Olympic Council of Asia. May the youth of Asia continue to celebrate the Asian Games in the spirit of brotherhood and for the betterment of humanity."

The 19th Asian Games, which commenced in 1951 in New Delhi, India, served as a celebration for Hangzhou, a bustling city of 10 million, home to Alibaba's headquarters, and situated adjacent to the sprawling metropolis of Shanghai.

Spokesperson Xu Deqing expressed satisfaction with the games, stating, "We have achieved the goal of streamlined, safe, and spectacular games." It was reported in state media that approximately $30 billion was spent in preparation for the games.

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Asian Games for General Awareness

The Asian Games, sometimes referred to as Asiad, is a four-year continental multi-sport event that brings together participants from around the Asia. From the inaugural Games in New Delhi, India, to the 1978 Games, the Asian Games Federation (AGF) governed the competition. Following the breakup of the Asian Games Federation in 1982, the events have been organised by the Olympic Council of Asia (OCA). The International Olympic Committee (IOC) recognises the Games, which are considered as the second-largest multi-sport event in the world after the Olympic Games.

From August 18th to September 2nd, 2018, the latest games were hosted by Indonesia in Jakarta and Palembang. The next games will be conducted in Hangzhou, China, from September 10th to 25th, 2022. The Asian Games as well as the Asian Para Games, the latter of which is a competition for athletes with physical disabilities, are both organised by host cities. The Asian Para Games take place just after the Asian Games.

Candidates for different Government examinations should carefully read the material on the Asian Games provided because questions on this topic are regularly asked in the General Awareness segment, particularly the history and the list of Asian Games winners.

Asian Games Notes PDF – Download PDF Here

Disciplines

Reference – Wikipedia [en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Asian_Games]

For more such important general awareness topics candidates can refer the links given for assistance:

• SSC General Awareness
• Bank General Awareness

Top Ten Medal Holding Countries

Out of a total of 44 nations that have since now participated in the Asian Games, China has the highest medal count followed by Japan and South Korea. India ranks 4th in terms of total medal count while Pakistan is not in the top ten.

Reference – Wikipedia [en.wikipedia.org/wiki/All-time_Asian_Games_medal_table]

Candidates can download the list of Asian Games Medal Count for the top ten countries given in PDF Format at the top and bottom of this article.

Candidates can check other similar topics given below:

Asian Games Interesting Facts

• India had sent the final group of 572 participants to the 2018 Asian Games, out of a total of 800 participants. The number of Indian athletes competing is the most it has ever been in the Asian Games’ history since its inception.
• The Asian Games 2018 event was the first time the games were held in two separate cities in the hosting country.
• The inaugural Asian Games were held in 1951, and India’s capital New Delhi bears the honour of being the first nation to host the event. In that specific year, India finished second in overall medal count.
• China is the best performing participant in the Asian Games’ history with a record of 1473 gold medals and 3187 total medals.

Note: Candidates can check out Previous Year Question Papers PDF with Solutions for deeper understanding and practice for the exam.

Only after the aspirants have a comprehensive understanding of the whole syllabus for the different governmental examinations can they begin their preparations in an organised manner. As a result, below is a list of resources they can refer to:

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Shooting at Asian Games 2023 review: Indian shooters deliver record-breaking performance in Hangzhou

India’s asian games victory in shooting ignites olympic ambitions..

Published : Oct 12, 2023 11:58 IST , CHENNAI - 5 MINS READ

Sharp focus: Divyansh Singh Panwar competes in the 10m air rifle mixed team event. Indian shooters bagged 22 medals in the Asian Games this year. | Photo Credit: PTI

India rang down the curtains on the 19th edition of the Asian Games with 107   medals, its best-ever haul at the quadrennial showpiece. An overwhelming 22 of these hallowed metal discs — seven gold, nine silver, and six bronze — came from shooting.

Although often labelled the most unpredictable sport, Indian shooting’s credentials have never come under a shadow of doubt at multi-discipline events like the Asiad (where it now has 80 podium finishes) and the Commonwealth Games. In fact, the sport has given India the most medals at CWG — 135. 

The only exception, though, is the Olympics, where the country has bagged only four medals, and what transpires there is a discussion for another day.

ALSO READ | Athletics at Asian Games 2023 review: A field day in office for Indian athletes

China, which won 29 medals in Hangzhou 2022, has topped the AG shooting tally in every edition since Bangkok 1978. However, this is the first time it has found its not-so-favourite neighbour breathing down its neck. Having come second, this is historically India’s best standing in the classic joust for continental supremacy.

Not just that, India has also surpassed its previous best medal count of 14 in shooting (three gold, five silver and six bronze), achieved at Doha 2006. In the previous edition at Jakarta-Palembang, the team had only managed to win nine medals.

The punctilious Chinese will also be aware of the fact that the Indian shooters broke as many as 18 records, including three world records, in their backyard. 

Although the momentous achievement does call for celebrations, the Indian shooting contingent would know better than to rest on its laurels. For, of the 22 medals the country bagged, 11 have come from events that aren’t a part of the Olympic programme. They weren’t on the schedule of the previous Asian Games as well.

These 11 events — described by the International Shooting Sport Federation’s (ISSF) general regulation 3.3.2.3 as ‘Team’ events for “three (3) members of the same gender” — award medals based on the sum total of the scores of each of the participating shooters in the individual qualification round.

Dream team: Aishwary Pratap Singh Tomar along with Rudrankksh Patil and Divyansh Panwar won gold with a world record score of 1893.7 in the 10m air rifle team event. | Photo Credit: AP

The women’s and men’s team programmes in 10m air rifle and 10m air pistol aren’t even mandatory events in all ISSF Championships, according to ‘Annex 2’ of the rules published on September 22, 2020, by the shooting world body.

The document states that it is binding to include 10m AR and AP team events in ISSF World Cups and Grand Prix meant for “10m rifle/pistol events only”. That means if there is a scheduled World Cup for all disciplines, the organisers may choose not to include the men’s and women’s 10m air rifle and pistol team events in the roster.

Similarly, the men and women’s team events in trap and skeet only need to be compulsorily organised if it is a separate World Cup meant for these two disciplines.

All World Championships, however, need to have men and women’s team events.

So, even though the talented trio of Rudrankksh Balasaheb Patil, Aishwary Pratap Singh Tomar and Divyansh Singh Panwar helped India win its first gold medal of Asian Games 2023 with a world record 10m air rifle team score of 1893.7, its significance in the build-up to the 2024 Olympics is largely vague.

While one may say these medals are morale-boosting, especially after the horrors of Tokyo, another may refute that these may only pave the way for complacency to creep in.

It may be sagacious to point out that it puts India’s bench strength in focus. According to former chief national rifle coach Joydeep Karmakar, the achievement eliminates what has come to be known as the ‘star culture’, where the media limelight tends to shine on a select few.

He says, “We should rather be proud when the aggregate of three shooters is better than the trio of other countries. It directly shows the strength of that sport rather than depending on a single star-oriented perspective. Let’s appreciate the growth of an average shooter in our country and not look for a single dependable star. This achievement is holistic.”

ALSO READ | Wrestling at Asian-Games-2023 review: Silver medal for Deepak Punia, the silver lining for India at Hangzhou

This theory may be a tad flawed as well, if we consider how China has historically fielded its athletes in the Olympics.

The East Asian nation is careful not to show its hand to competitors during the Olympic cycle, thereby never sending its complete ‘A’ team to any event in the lead-up to the Olympics. Take Yang Qian, Tokyo’s double Olympic gold medallist in 10m air rifle individual and mixed team events, for example. Ahead of the 2021 Olympics, Qian had only participated in one senior ISSF World Cup in 2019. Then, Zhang Changhong, who picked up the 50m rifle 3 positions gold in Tokyo with a world record score of 466.0, had participated in only one senior World Cup in 2019. He did, however, feature in the home World Cup Final later that year. Both of these athletes were not part of the squad that featured in the 2018 Asian Games. They were also absent in Hangzhou.

Rudrankksh Balasaheb Patil. | Photo Credit: A. M. FARUQUI

On the other hand, India is known to fly its first team to most World Cups, something it is trying to work on now since it all came crashing down at the last Summer Games.

Also, does a team medal hold a candle to an individual medal for an athlete? “Not even close. I was not even concentrating on the team medal. I was only focused on my individual achievements. Yes, it is a great thing that we won the team medal as well, but at the end of the day, it is an individual sport. The team event here isn’t like other team events where you brainstorm and work together. But again, I always believed that the team medal would be easy to get because we have an exceptional bunch of shooters,” says a shooter, who has had the good fortune of winning both the individual and team medals at the recently concluded Asian Games.

When the frenzied cheers finally fade out, it would bode well for the shooters to lounge for a while before getting their work mode back on. The Paris 2024 quota-bearing Asian Championship, after all, begins later this month.

More stories from this issue

Taming the dragon: Events where India bettered the Chinese at the Asian Games 2023

Virat Kohli: Team India’s engine room as World Cup dreams take shape

Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy 2023 Preview: A chance to unearth India’s next T20 star ahead of IPL auction

Last Word: Unusual words, unusual cricketers

Fitnesswise: Adapting coaching for modern athletes

Indian boxing review at Asian Games: Time to punch above their weight

ISL 2023-24 Diary: A joy and a headache for Kerala Blasters; Mohun Bagan enjoys win on the road

ODI World Cup 2023 Diary: Blue tinge in yellow land, snow-capped Dhauladhar range and Babar Azam’s super fan

Gold rush, points and tutorial: how India’s Hangzhou sojourn paved way for cricket at 2028 LA Olympics

Top 10 moments from Asian Games 2023 - Part 2

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Asian Games 2023 /

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Commonwealth Games /

Rudrankksh Balasaheb Patil /

Divyansh Singh Panwar /

Joydeep Karmakar /

Aishwary Pratap Singh Tomar

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ASIAN GAMES 2023

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Picture Courtesy: www.business-standard.com

Context: India sent a contingent of 655 athletes to participate in the 19th edition of the Asian Games, which began on September 23 and will conclude on October 8, 2023, in Hangzhou, the People’s Republic of China.

Key Highlights

• The Asian Games 2023 were originally scheduled for 2022 but were postponed by a year due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
• At the last edition of the Asian Games in Jakarta, Indonesia in 2018 , India had a squad of 570 athletes and achieved a best-ever medal haul of 70 medals, including 16 gold, 23 silver, and 31 bronze medals.
• Athletics has historically been a strong sport for India at the Asian Games, accounting for a significant portion of their medals. In Hangzhou 2023, India has its largest contingent in any sport with 68 athletes participating in track and field events.
• Some of the notable Indian athletes participating in the Asian Games include Neeraj Chopra (javelin throw), Avinash Sable (3000m steeplechase), Jyothi Yarraji (hurdles), Nikhat Zareen and Lovlina Borgohain (boxing), Bajrang Punia and Antim Panghal (wrestling), Manu Bhaker and Rudrankksh Patil (shooting), Mirabai Chanu (weightlifting), PV Sindhu (badminton), and archery world champions Aditi Gopichand Swami and Ojas Pravin Deotale.
• For the first time , India is fielding both men's and women's cricket teams at the Asian Games.
• The Asian Games in Hangzhou offer 74 Paris 2024 Olympic quotas in various sports, providing athletes with an opportunity to qualify for the next Olympic Games.

Must Read Articles:

ASIAN GAMES: https://www.iasgyan.in/daily-current-affairs/asian-games

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Hangzhou 2022 Asian Games

• 16 Sep 2023
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Why in News?

In a year that witnessed India's national football team achieving remarkable success in the SAFF Cup 2023 , the sport finds itself caught in a contentious club versus country-debate.

• The dispute between Indian Super League (ISL) clubs and the All India Football Federation (AIFF) has escalated regarding player availability, and a cloud of uncertainty looms over the composition of the upcoming Asian Games squad.
• The 19 th Asian Games will take place in Hangzhou, China , from 23 rd September 2023 to 8 th October 2023 , which was originally scheduled to be held in 2022 and was postponed due to the Covid-19 pandemic .

What are the Asian Games?

• The symbol for the Asian Games is the rising sun with interlocking rings.
• It is recognised by the International Olympic Committee.
• The first-ever Asian Games were held in New Delhi in 1951.
• Asian Games were regulated by the Asian Games Federation from 1951 to 1978. Since 1982, Olympic Council of Asia regulates the Asian Games.
• India is a founder member of Asian Games and also the host of the first Asian Games.
• Appu, the Indian elephant, was the first mascot to be used for the Asian Games.
• A total of 40 sports and 61 disciplines will take center stage across 54 competition venues in Hangzhou and five co-host cities.
• Competitions in archery, artistic swimming, boxing, breaking, hockey, modern pentathlon, sailing, tennis, and water polo will also serve as Olympic qualifiers, with Paris 2024 quota spots available in those nine sports.
• The mascots of the 19 th Asian Games are a group of robots named: Chenchen, Congcong, Lianlaian.
• The torch of the 19th Asian Games is named "Eternal Flame" . The design was inspired by the Liangzhu Culture of ancient Chinese Civilisation
• Esports and Breaking (Breakdance) are scheduled to make their inaugural appearances as recognized and official sporting events.

What are Esports and Breaking?

• Example: League of Legends, Overwatch, Fortnite, DOTA 2.
• It evolved from the hip hop movement during the early 1970s and is the most widely known of all hip hop dance styles.

Note : The 20th Asian Games are to be held in Nagoya, Japan in 2026.

What is AIFF?

• AIFF is the governing body for the football associations in India.
• In 1948, one year after independence the AIFF gained affiliation with FIFA.
• AIFF runs both the national teams as well as the various league and club level competitions throughout the country.

UPSC Civil Services Examination, Previous Year Question (PYQ)

Q. Consider the following statements in respect of the 32nd Summer Olympics: (2021)

• The official motto for this Olympics is ‘A New World’.
• Sport Climbing, Surfing, Skateboarding, Karate and Baseball are included in this Olympics.

Which of the above statements is/are correct?

(a) 1 only (b) 2 only  (c) Both 1 and 2  (d) Neither 1 nor 2

Q. Consider the following statements in respect of the Laureus World Sports Award which was instituted in the year 2000: (2021)

• American golfer Tiger Woods was the first winner of this award.
• The award was received mostly by ‘Formula One’ players so far.
• Roger Federer received this award maximum number of times compared to others.

Which of the above statements are correct?

(a) 1 and 2 only (b) 2 and 3 only  (c) 1 and 3 only  (d) 1, 2 and 3

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Asian Games 2023: Gilas Pilipinas win first men's basketball gold since 1962 in low-scoring affair against Jordan

Just 130 points were scored by the two teams combined, one of the lowest totals ever. Justin Brownlee was the Gilas' top scorer again.

Justin Brownlee was the Gilas Pilipinas ' hero once more on Friday night (6 October) as the Philippines clinched their first Asian Games men's basketball gold medal since 1962.

Brownlee top-scored with 20 points and also led the Gilas with 38 minutes 25 seconds on court and five assists as the Philippines reversed their earlier group-stage defeat against Jordan to win 19th Asian Games Hangzhou gold by a 70–60 scoreline. He also picked up 10 rebounds.

The triumph also ends the Gilas' run of missing out on a medal dating back to 1998, when the team took bronze. For Brownlee, it capped a stellar tournament during which he was the star for the Philippines nearly every game.

It had begun as a low-quality affair – an omen for the game, perhaps – Jordan reduced to firing in attempts from three-point range and going just 3-for-21 on field goal attempts in the first quarter. But the shooting improved in the second, the Jordanians scoring with four of their nine attempts from outside the three-point line, even taking the lead just before half-time before Brownlee ensured the Gilas would go into the half level at 31–31.

The partisan local crowd at the Hangzhou Olympic Sports Centre Gymnasium took to supporting the Jordanians, audibly jeering the Philippines' free throw attempts. But the Gilas showed they were unmoved, Brownlee sinking three free throws after drawing a foul as he was lining up a shot from outside the arc. Both teams continued to trade the lead early in the third, and in the vein of the first quarter continued to try their luck from downtown, with the Gilas Pilipinas having more success in that regard than the Jordanians.

Finally, the Gilas managed to go on a 14–4 scoring run, pulling away from 37–37 to lead at the third interval by a clear 10 points. However, there was no escaping the fact that it was a low-quality, tense and nervy contest. The closest Jordan would get from there was within six points, despite having the crowd's vocal backing. The Gilas defence held strong, picking up boards on Jordanian misses, and ensuring their opponents never had a clean shot at the basket.

As the clock wound down, every basket, every defensive play, was cheered loudly on the Philippines bench; the long faces on the Jordanian one grew yet longer. The crowd, too, had grown tense and quiet, their chosen team to support fading under the pressure of the timer. Fouls became the norm as Jordan tried to regain possession, but it was to be for naught.

When the buzzer sounded, there were no big celebrations – just respect between the teams as they shook hands. Only then did the Gilas began jumping about in delight, and all that could be heard were Philippine cheers in the stands and on court. The Gilas had ended a 61-year wait for gold.

It didn't matter that the game was low on quality, or that it was one of the lowest-scoring Asian Games finals ever. All that mattered was that the Philippine anthem would sound out over the arena, and gold medals placed around the Gilas players' necks.

Speaking afterwards, Chris Newsome said: "There was a lot of people who didn't think we could do it, and we proved them wrong." Teammate Angelo Kouame agreed, referring to the recent men's FIBA Basketball World Cup jointly hosted in Manila.

"We wanted to fight for everybody, we wanted to fight for the country. It's an amazing win," Kouame said. "A month after the World Cup, we knew that our national team really needed that win. Everybody came together and that was a great team effort."

Earl Scottie Thompson added: "This is special for us, for our country. This is a very meaningful win because we made history.

"Our coach told us, even from the start, that this is a rare opportunity and we should take this chance. Our game plan was to stay aggressive because every possession counts. We also followed our defensive game plan that our coaches gave us, and it worked."

Man of the hour Brownlee paid tribute to his teammates. "We knew that we would have a hard chance of playing in the game, especially when we lost to them earlier in the tournament.

"The Filipino heart, the Filipino pride…there is nothing like it. We displayed it in this tournament. We were down in some games, and we were up, and then we came back. The Filipino heart toughened us up a lot, especially in this gold medal game."

• Asian Games 2023: Preview, schedule and how to watch live
• Asian Games 2023: Overall medal table

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