The
Paris Paralympics were a mesmerizing showcase of athletic prowess, especially
for the Indian athletes who stood out on the global stage. Every performance
radiated a perfect balance of power, resolve, and finesse, creating moments
that felt almost like artistry in motion. As a dedicated fan, I was captivated
by nearly every event, despite the time difference with IST that meant tuning
in during the late hours, with the iconic Eiffel Tower illuminated in the
background. On the few occasions I missed a live broadcast, social media filled
the gap, delivering real-time updates that only deepened my respect and
admiration for these extraordinary athletes.
India’s
performance at the Paris 2024 Paralympic Games was nothing short of remarkable,
as athletes displayed extraordinary dedication and grit across a wide range of
disciplines. The nation celebrated its best-ever showing, amassing a historic
29 medals—seven gold, nine silver, and 13 bronze—surpassing the 19-medal haul
from Tokyo 2020, where five golds were won. This achievement marked a major
milestone in India’s Paralympic journey, with the total medal count surpassing
50 for the first time. A record 84 para-athletes represented India, competing
in 12 disciplines, with debuts in para-cycling, para-rowing, and blind judo.
Among
the standout moments, Avani Lekhara made history as the first Indian woman to
claim two gold medals at the Paralympic Games, successfully defending her title
in the women’s 10m air rifle standing SH1 event with a world-record-breaking
score. Another highlight came in the men’s club throw F51 event, where
Dharambir and Parnav Soorma secured India’s first-ever one-two finish, winning
gold and silver respectively, with Dharambir also setting a new Asian record of
34.92 meters. Several other Indian para-athletes etched their names into the
history books, further solidifying India’s growing reputation on the global
stage.
Praveen
Kumar set a new Asian record on his way to clinching gold in the high jump T64
event, marking India's sixth gold medal and their best-ever tally at the
Paralympics. Javelin thrower Sumit Antil made history as the first Indian man
to successfully defend a Paralympic title, capturing gold in the men's javelin
throw F64 with a remarkable throw of 70.59 meters, breaking his own Tokyo 2020
record three times during the competition. Meanwhile, Mariyappan Thangavelu
earned a bronze in the high jump T42 class, becoming the first Indian athlete
to win medals at three consecutive Paralympic Games, having previously secured
gold at Rio 2016 and silver at Tokyo 2020.
Preethi
Pal added to India’s medal count by securing the country's first-ever track
medal at the Paralympics with a bronze in the women's 100m T35 race. She later
won another bronze in the 200m, becoming India’s most decorated athlete at the
Games with two medals. On the track, Deepthi Jeevanji also made history by
becoming the first intellectually impaired Indian athlete to win a Paralympic
medal, earning bronze in the women’s 400m T20 class.
India's
success extended beyond track and field. In archery, Sheetal Devi, who competes
without arms, briefly set a world record during the ranking round. She later
teamed up with Rakesh Kumar to set another world record in the compound mixed
team qualification event. Their partnership was a perfect embodiment of grace
and precision in competition.
At
just 17 years old, Sheetal etched her name in history as India's youngest
Paralympic medallist, earning a bronze in the mixed team archery event. India's
strength in archery was further solidified when Harvinder Singh made headlines
by becoming the nation’s first-ever Paralympic archery champion. The incredible
achievements of Indian para-athletes at the Paris 2024 Paralympic Games
highlighted India's growing stature as a powerful force on the world stage.
The
Paralympic Games trace their roots back to 1948, when Sir Ludwig Guttmann
organized a sporting event for World War II veterans with spinal injuries in
Stoke Mandeville, England. This event eventually evolved into the international
Paralympic Games, which debuted in 1960 in Rome with 400 athletes from 23
nations. Since then, the Games have expanded dramatically, breaking down
stereotypes, promoting inclusivity, and showcasing the remarkable skill and
perseverance of athletes with disabilities.
India
embarked on its Paralympic journey in 1968, navigating a path filled with
obstacles such as limited resources, lack of proper facilities, and low public
awareness. Despite these challenges, Indian para-athletes steadily gained
recognition on the international stage. A turning point came in 2004 when
Devendra Jhajharia made history by winning India’s first Paralympic gold with a
world-record performance in the F46 javelin throw. This victory marked the
beginning of a new chapter for para-sports in India, which has since led to an
impressive tally of 35 medals across 12 Paralympic Games. The Paralympics
showcase India’s dedication to fostering inclusivity, aligning with the
nation's broader vision to promote equality and opportunity in sports.
Government
programs like the 'Target Olympic Podium Scheme' (TOPS), 'Khelo India,' and
increased financial backing for para-sports have given athletes with
disabilities greater access to top-tier training facilities, expert coaching,
and financial assistance. To build a more inclusive sports environment, India
frequently organizes events such as the National Para Games and Para Athletics
Championships, which help raise the profile of para-athletes and create more
opportunities for them. However, to truly shift societal views on disability
and foster empowerment, corporate sponsorships and enhanced media coverage are
essential. These elements play a key role in promoting social inclusion and
raising public awareness.
Around
the world, many nations have effectively advanced inclusivity by using sports
as a platform.
The
United Kingdom stands as a trailblazer in cultivating an inclusive sports
culture. A prime example is Team GB's impressive performance at the London 2012
Paralympics, where they finished third with 120 medals. This success was the
result of years of dedicated investment in para-sports, demonstrating the
country's commitment to inclusivity in athletics.
The
UK government, in collaboration with organizations such as the British
Paralympic Association, offered significant financial backing, cutting-edge
training facilities, and extensive support systems for athletes.
The
widespread broadcasting and marketing of the London 2012 Paralympics played a
crucial role in reshaping public attitudes toward disability, sparking
inspiration for a new generation of para-athletes. Likewise, Australia has made
significant strides in advancing inclusivity in sports, largely through the
efforts of the Australian Paralympic Committee, which emphasizes talent
identification, athlete development, and promoting inclusivity at the
grassroots level.
Japan's
dedication to accessibility was prominently displayed during the Tokyo 2020
Paralympics, where the country made substantial investments in inclusive
infrastructure. This included enhancements to public transport, venues, and
accommodations, underscoring Japan's strong commitment to supporting
para-sports.
Additionally,
Japan's Paralympic Committee launched the 'I’mPOSSIBLE' program, an educational
initiative from the Agitos Foundation, in schools nationwide. This program aims
to teach children about the Paralympic values of courage, determination,
inspiration, and equality, nurturing a culture of inclusivity from an early
age. In India, while the journey toward inclusiveness in sports has been
arduous, notable progress is clearly visible.
The
achievements of para-athletes at the 2024 Paralympics have played a significant
role in dismantling barriers and challenging stereotypes, setting the stage for
a more inclusive society. Nonetheless, there remains considerable work ahead to
guarantee that individuals with disabilities have equal opportunities to
participate in sports and compete at the highest levels.
The
future of Indian para-sports is bright, underscoring the idea that success in
athletics is determined not by physical limitations but by determination,
skill, and the will to overcome challenges. The mantra of "WE CAN"
captures this spirit perfectly.
(Email: dipakkurmiglpltd@gmail.com)