Neeru Dhanda scripts history, wins India’s first individual gold at Asian Games

Indian shooter Neeru Dhanda scripted history by winning India’s first individual gold medal in the ongoing Asian Games, clinching the women’s trap title with an Asian Record of 28 hits. Representing Madhya Pradesh, the 26-year-old finished two hits ahead of China’s Yunong Sun, while Hajar Abdulmalk secured bronze with 21.

Neeru’s triumph ended India’s 47-year wait for an individual trap gold at the Asian Games, after Randhir Singh’s historic victory in 1978. The achievement adds to her growing list of milestones, following her gold at the Asian Championships in Shymkent last year and her historic victory at the ISSF World Cup in Lonato, Italy, earlier this season, where she became the first Indian woman to win gold in the women’s trap event.

Neeru’s World Cup triumph, achieved with 27 hits in the final after a flawless 75/75 in qualification, marked India’s first-ever gold in the category at the competition. Her consistent performances have drawn praise from India’s high-performance manager (shotgun), Mansher Singh, who highlighted her improved confidence and strength in finals.

Neeru had also topped the Asian Games qualification round, helping India secure team silver alongside Manisha Keer and Aashima Ahlawat, as China claimed team gold and Kuwait took bronze.

Her back-to-back international successes mark a significant milestone for Indian shooting as the team builds towards the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics.