Paris Paralympics 2024

India's journey to the Paris 2024 Paralympics represents a significant milestone in the country’s sporting history. With 84 athletes, including 32 women, this is the largest contingent India has ever sent to the Paralympic Games. The growth in the number of athletes, particularly women, is a testament to the increased support and opportunities available for differently-abled athletes in India.

At the Tokyo Paralympics, India had its most successful outing, winning 19 medals, including five gold, eight silver, and six bronze. This achievement has set a high standard for the athletes heading to Paris, where they will compete across 12 sports, including three new disciplines: para cycling, para rowing, and blind judo. These additions are expected to boost India's medal tally and broaden the nation’s impact on the global Paralympic stage.

Among the athletes to watch at Paris 2024 are Avani Lekhara and Sumit Antil, both of whom secured gold medals at Tokyo 2020. Lekhara, who tied the world record in the women’s R2 10m air rifle standing SH1 event, will be looking to add another gold to her collection. Antil, the world record holder in men’s F64 javelin throw, will be defending his title with hopes of achieving even greater distances.

In para cycling, Arshad Shaik and Jyoti Gaderiya will represent India in the men’s and women’s C2 events, respectively. This sport, new to India’s Paralympic repertoire, offers a fresh opportunity for the country to demonstrate its versatility in adaptive sports. Kapil Parmar and Kokila will compete in the men’s and women’s blind judo events, respectively, while Anita and K. Narayana will take on the PR3 mixed doubles sculls in para rowing, another sport making its Paralympic debut for India.

India's representation at Paris 2024 is not just about numbers; it’s about breaking barriers and setting new benchmarks. The inclusion of more women and participation in new sports illustrates the country's commitment to inclusivity and excellence in the Paralympic movement. The athletes' stories of resilience and triumph over adversity are expected to inspire a new generation of differently-abled athletes in India and beyond.

Stay tuned to TimesofIndia.com for comprehensive coverage of the Paris 2024 Paralympics, where India's largest-ever contingent aims to set new records and bring home more medals than ever before. Track live updates, results, and the medal tally as our athletes compete on the global stage!