India’s Impressive Participation at the Paris 2024 Paralympics: Medal Tally and Key Athletes

Sports John Brightwater August 31, 2024

India’s Impressive Participation at the Paris 2024 Paralympics: Medal Tally and Key Athletes

As the Paris 2024 Paralympics approach, set to take place from August 28 to September 8, India proudly announces that a record number of 84 para-athletes will be representing the nation. This participation marks an increase in disciplines, with athletes set to compete in 12 sports, signifying an expansion from the previous Tokyo 2020 Games.

Among the outstanding athletes leading India’s contingent are javelin thrower Sumit Antil and shooter Avani Lekhara, both of whom clinched gold medals during the Tokyo Paralympics. Sumit Antil notably holds the world record with an exceptional throw of 73.29 meters, while Avani Lekhara distinguished herself as the first Indian woman to earn a gold medal at the Paralympic Games.

Additionally, two-time Paralympic medalist and high jumper Mariyappan Thangavelu, who emerged victorious in Rio 2016 and secured silver in Tokyo 2020, is also expected to shine at the upcoming event. Para table tennis athlete Bhavina Patel and archer Harvinder Singh, who achieved notable success as the first medalists for India in their respective disciplines, are anticipated to compete for further accolades.

Referring to Tokyo 2020, it was indeed a landmark achievement for India, culminating in 19 medals, comprising five golds, eight silvers, and six bronzes. For the Paris 2024 event, Indian para-athletes will make their debut in three new sports categories: para cycling, para rowing, and blind judo. This expansion includes esteemed individuals such as Arshad Shaik and Jyoti Gaderiya, competing in men’s and women’s C2 para cycling events, respectively, alongside Kapil Parmar and Kokila in blind judo and Anita and K. Narayana in para rowing.

Thus far, India has demonstrated impressive performances in the ongoing Paris 2024 Paralympics. Avani Lekhara has made history by becoming the first Indian woman to win two gold medals at the Paralympic Games, defending her title in the women’s 10m air rifle standing SH1 shooting event with a remarkable world record score. Additionally, Mona Agarwal’s bronze medal achievement marks the first occasion in which India has witnessed a double podium finish in a single event at the Paralympics.

In a related note, armless archer Sheetal Devi initially held a world record score in the ranking round before finishing in second place. Subsequently, she and Rakesh Kumar collaborated to achieve a world record score in the compound mixed team qualification event. Furthermore, Preethi Pal distinguished herself by securing a bronze medal in the women’s 100m T35 race, recording her personal best time, thus marking India’s inaugural medal in a track event at the Paralympics.

In conclusion, India has thus far secured a total of five medals at the Paris 2024 Paralympics, including one gold, one silver, and three bronze medals. The achievements of these exemplary athletes underscore the nation’s growing presence in the realm of Paralympic sports and exemplify their unwavering dedication and resilience.