India’s para-athletes lit up the global stage at the Paris Paralympics 2024, delivering a performance that will be etched in history. With an unprecedented 29 medals, including 7 dazzling golds, 9 silvers, and 13 bronzes, Team India stormed into the top 20 nations, ranking 18th overall — its highest-ever finish.
From track events to the javelin field, archery ranges, and even the debut judo mats, India shone brighter than ever, leaving behind sporting giants like Switzerland and South Korea. This edition of the Paralympics was not just about medals, but about the triumph of the human spirit.
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A Golden Era for Indian Para-Sports
When the games kicked off in Paris, few could have predicted the scale of India’s success. Competing in 12 sports, including new disciplines like cycling, rowing, and judo, the 84-strong Indian contingent brought home glory like never before.
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Leading the charge was Sumit Antil, a javelin thrower whose left leg was amputated after an accident. Antil defended his title in style, breaking his own Paralympic record with a monstrous throw of 68.55 meters in the F64 category. “It’s not just about the medal,” Antil said after his victory, “it’s about showing the world what we can do, despite the odds.”
In the shooting range, Avani Lekhara captured hearts once again. The 23-year-old, confined to a wheelchair since an accident in 2012, defended her 10m air rifle standing SH1 title, breaking her own world record to win India’s first gold in Paris. With this win, Lekhara became the first Indian woman to clinch two gold medals at the Paralympics, a feat that will inspire generations.
From First-Timers to History Makers
Paris 2024 was full of firsts for India. Preethi Pal scripted history as the first Indian female para-athlete to win multiple track event medals in the same Games. She secured bronzes in both the 100m and 200m T35 races, clocking personal bests in both. “It feels surreal,” Pal said, “This is not just a win for me, but for every girl back home who dreams of defying the odds.”
In a spectacular one-two finish in the men’s club throw F51 event, Dharambir Nain clinched gold with an Asian record throw of 34.92m, while Pranav Soorma followed closely to bag the silver. This event alone showed the power of resilience, as both athletes overcame physical challenges that would have held back many others.
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The medals didn’t stop there. Kapil Parmar made history by winning India’s first-ever Paralympic medal in judo, securing a bronze in the men’s 60kg J1 class. His journey from a small village in Rajasthan to the Paralympic podium is one of grit, determination, and sheer willpower. Parmar’s success was a breakthrough moment for Indian judo, opening the door for future athletes to step into the spotlight.
Archers and Badminton Stars Fly High
Indian archers made their mark in Paris, with Harvinder Singh becoming the first Indian archer to strike Paralympic gold in the individual recurve open category. His victory was emotional, as Singh has been an advocate for para-sports for years, proving that perseverance truly pays off.
The badminton courts, too, witnessed Indian dominance. Kumar Nitesh emerged as a hero by winning India’s first Paralympic gold in men’s singles SL3, outplaying Britain’s Daniel Bethell in a thrilling final. Nitesh, who lost his leg in a train accident, shared his feelings: “This gold is not just mine; it belongs to every Indian who believed in me.”
The women’s badminton events saw Thulasimathi Murugesan claim silver in women’s singles SU5, while Manisha Ramadass added another bronze in the same category. The resilience and skill displayed by India’s para-badminton athletes point toward an even brighter future for the sport.
India’s Meteoric Rise in Paralympics
India’s journey in the Paralympics has been nothing short of phenomenal. From winning just four medals at the Rio 2016 Paralympics to an incredible 19 medals at Tokyo 2020, the country has continued its upward trajectory. Paris 2024, however, was a game-changer. The 29-medal haul shattered all expectations, firmly establishing India as a force to reckon with in para-sports.
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The pride of these wins was best captured by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who took to X (formerly Twitter) to celebrate the athletes: “Our incredible para-athletes have brought home 29 medals, the best-ever performance since India’s debut at the Games. This achievement is due to their unwavering dedication and indomitable spirit.”
India’s success wasn’t just in the numbers but in the stories of determination, perseverance, and courage that the athletes brought to Paris. They faced adversity head-on, shattered stereotypes, and inspired millions back home to dream big.
A Bright Future
India’s Paralympic success is no fluke. It’s the result of years of hard work, investment in infrastructure, and a focus on nurturing para-sports talent. As the country celebrates its best-ever performance at the Paralympics, the future looks incredibly bright for Indian para-athletes. With increased support and more opportunities, the next generation of athletes is sure to reach even greater heights.
As the curtain fell on the Paris Paralympics with a dazzling closing ceremony, Indian para-athletes stood tall, having not just won medals, but the hearts of millions across the world. The message was clear — no obstacle is too big when you have the courage to rise above it.
