As the curtains close on the Paris Olympics 2024, the spotlight shifts to the much-anticipated Paralympic Games, set to commence on Wednesday, August 28, in Paris. This edition of the Paralympics is particularly special for India, with the country sending its largest-ever contingent, comprising 84 para-athletes, to compete on the global stage. The Indian team, brimming with talent and determination, is aiming to surpass its previous achievements at the Tokyo Paralympics.
India’s Biggest Paralympic Team Ready for Action
The Paralympic Games, running from August 28 to September 8, will witness participation from 169 countries. India, which finished 24th in the medal tally at the Tokyo Paralympics with 19 medals (including five golds), is setting its sights higher this time. With an increased number of athletes, India is targeting an impressive haul of 25 medals, hoping to bring home at least 10 golds.
In Tokyo, the Indian contingent consisted of 54 athletes, but the surge to 84 participants this year marks a significant leap. This larger team, competing in 12 different sports, has raised expectations back home. Fans are particularly hopeful about athletics, shooting, and badminton, the three disciplines that yielded the most medals for India in the previous edition.
Top Contenders to Watch Out For
Leading India’s charge at the Paris Paralympics are some of the country’s most accomplished para-athletes. Star javelin thrower Sumit Antil, who captured the nation’s imagination with his gold medal in Tokyo, is set to defend his title in the F64 category. Antil, whose season-best throw stands at 69.50 meters, will be the flag bearer for India at the opening ceremony.
In shooting, the spotlight will once again be on Avani Lekhara and Manish Narwal, both of whom secured gold at the Tokyo Paralympics. Avani, competing in the women’s 10-meter air rifle standing SH1 category, is determined to defend her gold medal, while Manish, who will compete in the 10-meter air pistol SH1 event, will aim for a repeat of his Tokyo success.
However, India’s badminton team faces a significant setback with the absence of Pramod Bhagat, who has been handed a 1.5-year ban due to a doping rule violation. Bhagat’s absence leaves a gap in the team, but the onus now falls on Krishna Nagar and Suhas L.Y., both of whom are medal hopefuls. Krishna, the reigning gold medalist from Tokyo, and Suhas, who clinched silver last time, will be crucial to India’s badminton prospects.
Aiming High in Paris
India’s Paralympic journey has been one of steady progress, with each edition bringing more recognition and respect for the country’s para-athletes. The Tokyo Paralympics marked a watershed moment for India, with a record medal haul that included standout performances in athletics and shooting. As the Paris Paralympics approach, the Indian contingent is motivated to build on this momentum and make history.
With a larger team and heightened expectations, the Paris Paralympics 2024 promises to be an exciting chapter for Indian sports. As the nation rallies behind its para-athletes, the hope is that they will once again rise to the occasion, showcasing their resilience and skill on the world stage.
