Neeru Dhanda's historic gold medal win in the Asian Games trap shooting event marks a significant achievement for India.
Neeru, hailing from Haryana and later moving to Madhya Pradesh, has become the first Indian woman to win a gold medal in trap shooting at the Asian Games. Inspired by her cousin, she pursued shooting with determination despite facing severe challenges including a near-fatal COVID-19 experience in 2021. Her coach Mansher Singh revealed the harrowing ordeal she went through, including being missing for 10 days and requiring urgent medical intervention. This painful experience steeled her resolve to excel in her sport.
Following her recovery, Neeru dedicated herself entirely to shooting and achieved her first significant success at the Asian Championships in 2025 with a maiden gold medal. She continued to break new ground by becoming the first Indian woman to win a World Cup gold at the 2026 ISSF World Cup shotgun event in Italy. Her relentless dedication and clear goals have propelled her to the top ranks of the shooting world.
Apart from her shooting career, Neeru serves as a 9th Subedar in the Indian Army, balancing her military duties with sport. The recent gold medal at the 2026 Asian Games in Aichi Nagoya has elevated her status to a legendary figure in Indian sports. Her journey from a small town to international acclaim is a testimony to perseverance and passion.
This historic victory not only ends India's long wait for an individual gold in shooting at the Asian Games but also inspires future generations of sportspersons, especially women, to dream big and achieve greatness.