India’s Historic Campaign at Paris Paralympics 2024
India made history at the Paris 2024 Paralympics with an outstanding performance by its para-athletes. The Indian contingent clinched an unprecedented 29 medals, comprising seven gold, nine silver, and 13 bronze. This remarkable achievement surpassed India’s previous record of 19 medals at the Tokyo 2020 Paralympics. The team, consisting of 84 para-athletes, showcased their talent across 12 disciplines during the event, which ran from August 28 to September 8. Notably, India made its debut in para-cycling, para-rowing, and blind judo at this edition of the Paralympic Games.
The Indian para-athletes not only secured medals but also left their mark by setting new records. Sumit Antil, in athletics, established a Paralympic record with an impressive javelin throw of 70.59m, while several others shattered Asian records in high jump, club throw, and shot put. Additionally, Sheetal Devi, an archer, narrowly missed setting a new world record, and shooter Avani Lekhara set a new Paralympic record in the women’s 10m air rifle SH1 event. Notably, 17-year-old Sheetal Devi became India’s youngest Paralympic medallist, while 35-year-old Dharambir became the oldest Indian to clinch a gold medal. This exceptional campaign has undoubtedly ushered in a new era for Indian para-sports on the global stage.
