The Paris 2024 Paralympics mark a new chapter for India, as the nation sends its largest-ever contingent to the Games. With 84 athletes competing across 12 sports, India aims to surpass its previous best performance of 19 medals, achieved at the Tokyo 2020 Paralympics. As the athletes gear up to compete from August 28 to September 9, hopes are high for a record-breaking performance. Here’s a detailed look at India’s preparations, key athletes, and the events to watch out for.
India’s Largest Paralympic Contingent
For the first time, India will be represented by 84 athletes in the Paralympics. This is a significant increase from the 54 athletes who participated in the Tokyo 2020 Paralympics. This growth reflects the rising popularity and recognition of para-sports in India, as well as the nation’s commitment to supporting athletes with disabilities.
India will be competing in 12 sports: para athletics, para badminton, para shooting, para archery, para canoe, para-cycling, para judo, para powerlifting, para rowing, para swimming, para table tennis, and para taekwondo. Notably, this is the first time that Indian athletes will participate in para-cycling, para-judo, and para-rowing, highlighting the country’s expanding involvement in diverse sports.
Athletics: A Strong Contingent with Medal Hopes
Almost half of India’s Paralympic team consists of a 38-member para-athletics squad. Headlining this group is Sumit Antil, the reigning world record holder in the F64 category for javelin throw. Antil, who won gold at the Tokyo 2020 Paralympics, has continued to excel on the global stage. His latest achievement includes a gold medal at the 2024 World Para Athletics Championships in Kobe, Japan, where he set a new world record with a throw of 69.50 meters. Sumit is a strong contender for gold again and will compete on September 2 in the javelin throw final.
Other notable athletes in the para-athletics team include Nishad Kumar, a silver medalist in the high jump at the Tokyo Paralympics. Nishad set an Asian record of 2.06m at the Games and has continued his stellar performance with gold at the 2021 World Para Athletics Grand Prix in Dubai. Mariyappan Thangavelu, another high jump specialist, who won gold at Rio 2016 and silver at Tokyo 2020, is also expected to perform well.
Para-Badminton: Defending Champions and New Stars
Para badminton is another sport where India has traditionally excelled. The team of 13 athletes will be looking to continue this success. Krishna Nagar, who won gold in men’s singles SH6 at Tokyo 2020, is one of the favorites. He will begin his campaign on August 29 in the group stage. Nagar ranked world No. 2, has had a successful run at various international tournaments, including gold at the 2024 World Championships.
Suhas Yathiraj, a civil servant turned para-athlete, is another top contender. Yathiraj won a silver medal in the men’s singles SL4 category at the Tokyo Paralympics. Known for his agility and strategic play, Yathiraj is currently ranked world No. 1 and will be a key player for India in Paris.
Para Shooting: Precision and Accuracy on Display
The 10-member para shooting team will also have high expectations, especially with star shooters like Avani Lekhara and Manish Narwal. Avani, who made history by becoming the first Indian woman to win a Paralympic gold medal in shooting at Tokyo 2020, will compete in three medal events starting August 28. She has continued to perform at a high level, securing bronze medals at the 2024 Para Shooting World Cup in New Delhi.
Manish Narwal, another gold medalist from Tokyo 2020, will aim to defend his title in the mixed 50m pistol SH1 event. Narwal’s consistent performance in international competitions makes him a strong medal prospect for India.
New Sports, New Opportunities: Debut in Para-Cycling, Judo, and Rowing
India’s participation in para-cycling, para-judo, and para-rowing for the first time marks a significant expansion of its Paralympic involvement. These new additions reflect the growing interest and investment in para-sports in the country.
In para-cycling, two athletes will compete from August 29 to September 7, while in para-judo, India’s athletes will take the mat from September 5 to 7. Para rowing will feature two Indian athletes from August 30 to September 1. The inclusion of these sports not only provides more opportunities for athletes but also increases the chance of medal wins for India.
Para Table Tennis and Other Sports: Continuing the Legacy
Bhavina Patel, who won a silver medal in Class 4 table tennis at the Tokyo Paralympics, is set to lead India’s charge in para table tennis. Patel’s remarkable journey from the national level to winning medals on the world stage has been an inspiration to many. She has her eyes set on gold this time, and with her skill and experience, she stands a strong chance.
Apart from table tennis, India will compete in para archery, para canoe, para powerlifting, para-swimming, and para taekwondo. These sports have shown promise, and with the right training and preparation, Indian athletes are expected to make a mark.
Expectations and Hopes: Aiming for a Record Medal Haul
With 84 athletes competing in 55 medal events, India is aiming to significantly increase its medal tally at the Paris 2024 Paralympics. The previous best performance was at the Tokyo 2020 Paralympics, where India secured 19 medals. The expectations are high, and there is a palpable sense of optimism among athletes, coaches, and fans alike.
The Indian government, along with various sports organizations, has invested heavily in training and support for the athletes. This includes advanced training facilities, international exposure, and comprehensive coaching. The preparation and support are geared towards ensuring that Indian athletes perform at their best and bring glory to the nation.
Looking Back: India’s Success at Tokyo 2020
India’s performance at the Tokyo 2020 Paralympics was a watershed moment in the country’s Paralympic history. The 19-medal haul included five golds, eight silvers, and six bronzes. This was India’s best-ever performance, surpassing all previous records.
Notable performances included Sumit Antil’s world-record throw in javelin, Avani Lekhara’s historic gold in shooting, and the dominance of Indian athletes in para-badminton. These successes not only brought pride to the nation but also increased awareness and support for para-sports in India.
The Road Ahead: Building on Success
The Paris 2024 Paralympics represent not just a sporting event but a movement. A movement towards greater inclusion, recognition, and support for athletes with disabilities. India’s journey from a modest start in the Paralympics to becoming a formidable force is a testament to the hard work, dedication, and resilience of its athletes.
As the countdown to the Paris 2024 Paralympics begins, the nation stands united in support of its athletes. Every medal, every record, and every personal best will be celebrated, as it will symbolize not just sporting excellence but the triumph of the human spirit.
Conclusion
The Paris 2024 Paralympics will be a significant event for India, marking the largest participation in its history. With a strong contingent and hopes of a record medal haul, Indian athletes are ready to make their mark on the global stage. From seasoned champions like Sumit Antil and Avani Lekhara to debutants in new sports, the Indian team is set to inspire and make the nation proud. As the Games unfold, all eyes will be on these incredible athletes who continue to defy odds, break barriers, and bring glory to India.
