Female wrestler Sakshi Malik has secured India’s first medal at the 2016 Rio Olympics, ushering in a sense of relief across the country.

The 23-year-old Indian defeated Kyrgyzstan’s Aisuluu Tynybekova in a dramatic finish in the 58kg freestyle wrestling category, making a comeback in the final seconds to win 8-5.

After her victory Malik jogged around the wrestling arena, carrying the Indian flag before collapsing on the mat as true realisation of her feat sank in.

“It’s (the victory) the result of 12 years of wrestling day and night. I never gave up in the bout and gave it my maximum,” she told Indian television news channels after her victory.