The Olympic Games in Paris have begun with grandeur, and India has sent a formidable team of 117 athletes to compete. Among them is a remarkable participant from Bihar – Shreyasi Singh, a sitting Member of the Legislative Assembly (MLA). Contrary to what one might assume, there is no special political entry here; Shreyasi Singh has earned her place purely through her prowess in shooting sports.
Shreyasi Singh: From Politics to Sports
Before becoming an MLA representing Jamui in Bihar, Shreyasi Singh was already a celebrated shooter. She has been honored with the prestigious Arjuna Award, which recognizes outstanding achievement in national sports. Her accolades include a silver medal in the double trap event at the 2014 Commonwealth Games in Glasgow and a gold medal at the 2018 Commonwealth Games in Gold Coast.
Early Life and Education
Hailing from Gidhaur in Jamui district, Shreyasi Singh pursued her higher education with determination. She graduated with a degree in Arts from Hansraj College, Delhi, and completed an MBA from Manav Rachna International University in Faridabad. Her family background is steeped in politics and sports, with both her parents being influential figures. Her father, Digvijay Singh, was a former Union Minister and MP from Banka, while her mother, Putul Singh, also served as an MP.
Political Journey
Shreyasi Singh’s entry into politics came in 2020 when she joined the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). She contested the Bihar Legislative Assembly elections and won with a significant majority, defeating the sitting MLA Vijay Prakash by 41,000 votes. Despite her political responsibilities, Shreyasi never lost sight of her passion for shooting.
Balancing Two Worlds
Managing a career in sports and politics is no small feat. Shreyasi Singh spends considerable time in her constituency, where there is no shooting range for her practice. To keep her skills sharp, she often travels to Delhi for training, balancing her duties as an MLA with her rigorous practice schedule. Her dedication to both fields is evident in her continuous efforts to improve and excel.
Achievements in Shooting
Shreyasi Singh has represented India in several prestigious events. In the 2010 Commonwealth Games held in Delhi, she competed in the singles and pair trap events, finishing 6th and 5th, respectively. Her breakthrough came in 2014 when she won the silver medal in the singles double trap event at the Glasgow Commonwealth Games. The same year, she also secured a bronze medal in the double trap team event at the Asian Gamesin Incheon, along with her teammates Shagun Chowdhary and Varsha Varman.
In 2017, Shreyasi clinched the gold medal at the 61st National Shooting Championship, representing Bihar. Her relentless pursuit of excellence in shooting has made her a prominent figure in Indian sports.
The Road to Paris 2024
Shreyasi Singh’s selection for the 2024 Paris Olympics is a testament to her skill and determination. She will be competing in the trap shooting event, representing India alongside Punjab’s Rajeshwari Kumari. This marks a significant milestone as she becomes the first athlete from Bihar to compete in the Olympics, fulfilling a dream she shared with her late father.
Conclusion
Shreyasi Singh’s journey from a small town in Bihar to the grand stage of the Paris Olympics is inspiring. Her ability to juggle the demanding roles of a politician and a sportswoman is commendable. As she steps onto the Olympic stage, she carries the hopes and aspirations of an entire nation. Her story is a shining example of what can be achieved with dedication, perseverance, and a clear vision.
Let’s wish Shreyasi Singh all the best as she aims for gold at the Paris 2024 Olympics, making India proud once again.
