When we talk about Indian sports in 2024, one must admit that this year has brought new hope to India’s Paralympians. The players and sports that were often overlooked have proved their worth and captured everyone’s attention with their remarkable historic feats at the Paris Paralympics. Not only did the players perform brilliantly, but they also reignited fans’ interest and optimism for the future of Para Sports. After a disappointing campaign at the Paris Olympics, the Indian Paralympians filled the nation with joy, bringing back-to-back medals and securing a position among the top 20 nations worldwide. Let’s recap India’s glorious journey at the 2024 Paralympics.
Highest medal count of all time
India participated in the Paralympics for the 13th time in 2024, achieving its highest medal count ever. From 28 August to 8 September, a contingent of 84 athletes competing across 12 sports brought home 29 medals, surpassing the 19 medals won at Tokyo 2020. India’s tally included 7 golds, 9 silvers, and 13 bronze medals, marking an extraordinary achievement.
Golden highlights
Noteworthy gold medalists included Avani Lekhara, who secured gold in the women’s 10m air rifle event, becoming the first Indian woman to win multiple Paralympic golds. Additionally, Nitesh Kumar added another golden feather to India’s cap in badminton by winning the men’s singles SL3 category. India’s equivalent to Neeraj Chopra in Para Sports, Sumit Antil, excelled in the men’s javelin throw F64 event, setting two new Paralympic records.
Silver and bronze wins
Manish Narwal, Nishad Kumar, and Yogesh Kathuniya maintained their silver streak, replicating their performances from Tokyo 2020 in air pistol, high jump T47, and discus throw F56, respectively. Preethi Pal emerged as a multi-medalist, earning bronzes in the women’s 100m and 200m T35 events. In para-badminton, Thulasimathi Murugesan’s consistent performance earned her a silver medal.
Emerging sports and first-time achievements
The 2024 Paralympics also marked milestones in sports like Judo and Archery. Kapil Parmar bagged India’s first Paralympic medal in Judo, a bronze, paving the way for greater interest in this sport. The nation’s success in archery was highlighted by Harvinder Singh’s gold medal in the individual recurve event, showcasing archery as a promising discipline for future games.
Player who went viral
While many players received recognition, one player became an internet and media sensation. Competing in the men’s javelin throw F41 category, Navdeep Singh clinched the gold medal. Once taunted for his condition (dwarfism), Navdeep earned India its first-ever Paralympic medal in the F41 men’s javelin throw category. His charismatic personality made him a favourite, garnering respect from India’s Prime Minister and appearances on popular podcasts and shows like The Great Indian Kapil Show.
A ray of hope
This record-breaking performance not only uplifted the spirits of the athletes but also set the stage for India’s momentum in future international competitions. India’s journey at the 2024 Summer Paralympics has given new hope to para sportspersons across the country. The athletes’ outstanding achievements have set a benchmark that will inspire and motivate generations to come.
