Nagoya, September 20, 2026 (Yes Punjab News)
Indian shooter Elavenil Valarivan believes the country is steadily moving towards becoming a sporting nation, crediting government and state government schemes for helping athletes develop both mentally and physically.
Elavenil made the remarks after winning silver medals in the women’s 10m air rifle individual and team events at the Aichi-Nagoya Asian Games on Sunday.
“I think I am very thankful to the entire government, to the state government, for implementing such schemes that help the athletes grow not only mentally but physically as well,” Elavenil said.
“With all the schemes that have been coming up, we definitely can say that India is rightly towards being called a sporting nation. And we are just miles away from achieving our IPTO,” she added.
Elavenil first contributed to India’s silver medal in the team event before returning to the range for the individual final. She was in contention for gold for most of the final but eventually finished second to Japan’s Hinata Taichi.
Taichi claimed gold with an Asian Games record score of 253.0, while Elavenil finished with 252.4. The Indian shooter entered the final two shots with a 0.3-point lead but could not maintain her advantage as Taichi produced a strong finish.
Reflecting on the closing stages, Elavenil said the excitement of being within reach of the podium briefly affected her focus.
“I think it was more about the excitement part where you know the medals were there, the podium was there. And I kind of got a little sidetracked from my technique, and by the time I came back to the technique, it was a little too far,” she said.
Elavenil said the experience reinforced the importance of sticking to her technique and process, rather than focusing on the medal outcome.
She also spoke to her parents and brother after the event and said celebrations were already underway at home, although she was unable to join them as she has another event remaining.
“I just want to give my absolute best,” she said.
Japan also holds a special place in Elavenil’s career. She competed at her first Olympics in the country and is now appearing at her second Asian Games in Japan.
“Japan has always been special. I had my first Olympics here. I am having my second Asian Games here. So very grateful for the opportunity that I have got,” she said.
After completing her remaining competition commitments, Elavenil said she would like to take a short break and spend time with her family and coaches.
“I think for me I really need a two-day break where I can just sleep in, eat all that I want and just get to spend some time with my family and coaches,” she said.
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