After India’s underwhelming performance at the Paris Olympics, where the nation secured just six medals, hopes are high for a much brighter outcome at the upcoming Paralympics. Scheduled to be held from August 28 to September 8 at the same venue, the Paralympics promise to bring more joy to Indian sports fans, with the country poised to achieve a historic medal haul.
Targeting Over 25 Medals at Paralympics
According to Devendra Jhajharia, chief of the Paralympic Committee of India (PCI) and a two-time Paralympic gold medallist, India is set to make a significant impact in Paris. “India will win medals every day in the Paralympics,” Jhajharia confidently stated to TOI. He added that the Indian contingent is expected to surpass its previous record of 19 medals from the Tokyo 2021 Paralympics, aiming for a total exceeding 25 medals and a top-20 finish in the overall standings.
Largest-Ever Indian Contingent at Paris Paralympics
India is sending its largest-ever Paralympic contingent to Paris, with 84 athletes competing across 12 disciplines, including archery, athletics, badminton, and shooting. “The Indian contingent would look to carry the momentum of record-breaking performances in the 2021 Tokyo Paralympics and the 2023 Asian Para Games,” Jhajharia noted. Last year, India secured 111 medals at the Asian Para Games in Hangzhou, a performance that has bolstered confidence for the upcoming Paralympics.
Athletes in Peak Condition
Jhajharia praised the preparation and determination of the Indian athletes, highlighting the support from initiatives like Khelo India and the Target Olympic Podium Scheme (TOPS). “Most of our athletes are in excellent shape, having trained rigorously for this event. We expect outstanding results, particularly in athletics, archery, badminton, and shooting,” he said.
Mix of experience and youth in squad
The Indian Paralympic team features a blend of seasoned veterans and promising young talents. Among them is 39-year-old Amit Kumar Saroha, a seasoned athlete participating in his fourth Paralympics in the F51 category discus throw.
At the other end of the age spectrum is 17-year-old archer Sheetal Devi, who competes using her legs due to a medical condition. Sheetal, who won gold medals in individual compound and mixed team archery events at the 2023 Asian Para Games, is the youngest member of the team.
All eye on India at Paris Paralympics
Jhajharia also highlighted the participation of ten athletes from Rajasthan, expressing confidence that they will contribute significantly to India’s medal tally. “I am confident they will win at least five medals,” he stated, reflecting the optimism surrounding the Indian contingent’s prospects.
As the Paris Paralympics draw nearer, there is a growing sense of anticipation that India’s athletes will make the nation proud, potentially achieving a medal every day and securing a top-20 finish on the global stage.
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