'I Dedicate All Three Medals to Indian Army': Neeru Dhanda After Asian Games Heroics
Trap shooter Neeru Dhanda dedicates her three Asian Games medals to the Indian Army and fallen soldiers after a historic performance.
In a stirring moment of patriotism following her historic run at the 2026 Asian Games, Indian trap shooter Neeru Dhanda has dedicated her entire medal haul to the Indian Army and the brave soldiers who protect the nation's borders.
Dhanda, who holds the rank of Naib Subedar in the Indian Army, emerged as one of the standout performers of the continental event. Her exceptional skill on the shooting range earned her a total of three medals: two golds and one silver.
A Historic Triumph on the Shooting Range
Neeru Dhanda made history by becoming the first Indian woman to secure an individual Asian Games gold medal in trap shooting. She achieved this feat by topping the women's individual event with an impressive score of 26.
Her success did not stop there. Dhanda continued her dominance with the following achievements:
- Individual Gold: Women's individual trap shooting event.
- Team Silver: Women's team trap event, competing alongside Aashima Ahlawat and Manisha Keer.
- Mixed Team Gold: Partnering with Kynan Chenai to claim the top spot in the mixed team trap event.
A Tribute to the Bravehearts
Speaking at a felicitation ceremony where the Chief of the Army Staff (COAS), General Dhiraj Seth, interacted with the decorated sportspersons, Dhanda expressed deep emotion regarding her achievements. She emphasized that her success is inseparable from her identity as a soldier.
“I dedicate this medal to the Indian Army, and to the brave men of our country who lose their lives at the border protecting our nation. I dedicate all three medals to them,” Dhanda stated. “Their strong resolve for the country and the ultimate sacrifice of giving their lives for their nation is no small thing. They have families too. They give up everything to protect our country.”
She further added that the respect and honour bestowed upon her by the Army and the nation would be something she would cherish for the rest of her life.
Eyes on the World Championships and LA 2028
While celebrating her Asian Games success, the champion shooter is already looking toward the next major challenges. Her immediate focus is the World Championships, scheduled to take place from November 1 to 15. This upcoming tournament is critical as it includes a quota competition.
Ultimately, Dhanda revealed that her eyes are set on the ultimate goal for every athlete: the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics.
Army Valor in Shooting: Kamaljeet's Gold Success
Dhanda was not the only Army representative to shine. Kamaljeet, serving as a Havildar in the Indian Army, also secured a gold medal in the 10m air pistol mixed team event alongside Suruchi Singh.
Expressing his gratitude for the warm welcome from the Army, Kamaljeet noted that he is already shifting his mindset toward the World Championships. His primary objective is to secure an Olympic quota for India, ensuring he can represent the nation on the grandest stage at the 2028 Olympics.