India has made history at the 2024 Paris Paralympics, achieving something remarkable that has never been done before. For the first time in 64 years of participation in the Paralympic Games, India has shattered its previous records, especially in the field of athletics, where the country has excelled like never before.
A Historic Achievement in Athletics
India has been a part of the Paralympic Games since 1960, but the level of success seen in Paris 2024 is unparalleled. Indian athletes have shown their incredible skills and determination, making the nation proud by winning a significant number of medals in athletics. This is the first time in Paralympic history that India has reached double digits in medal counts for a single sport, and the event isn’t even over yet. With several days of competition still left, there is a possibility that India could add even more medals to its tally.
Record-Breaking Medal Count
India has already secured 10 medals in athletics alone within the first six days of the Paris Paralympics, a milestone never before achieved. This impressive feat marks the highest number of medals India has ever won in a single sport at the Paralympics. Let’s take a closer look at the athletes who contributed to this historic moment.
Indian Athletes Who Made History
The first two medals in athletics for India came from Preeti Pal, who clinched bronze in both the women’s 100m and 200m T35 events. Following her, Nishad Kumar won India’s third medal, a silver, in the men’s high jump T47 event. Yogesh Kathuniya then added to the tally with a silver in the men’s discus throw F56 event.
Sumit Antil brought home India’s fifth medal and first gold of the Games, with a stunning performance in the men’s javelin throw F64 event. Deepti Jivanji secured the sixth medal with a commendable performance in the women’s 400 meter T20 event. The seventh and eighth medals came from the men’s high jump T63 event, where Sharad Kumar won silver, and Mariyappan Thangavelu took bronze.
The ninth and tenth medals were won in the men’s javelin throw F46 event, with Ajit Singh earning silver and Sundar Singh Gurjar taking bronze. Each of these athletes has played a crucial role in bringing India to the forefront of the global Paralympic stage.
Avani Lekhara Finishes Fifth in 50m Rifle Event at Paris Paralympics
Breaking a 64-Year-Old Record
Before the Paris Paralympics, India’s most successful Paralympic performance was in Tokyo 2020, where the country won 19 medals. However, in just the first six days of the Paris Games, India has already surpassed this record by winning 20 medals, making it the most successful Paralympics in Indian history.
This incredible achievement includes three gold, seven silver, and ten bronze medals. The athletes’ hard work, dedication, and passion have propelled India to new heights in the world of Paralympic sports. Their performances not only bring pride to the nation but also inspire future generations of athletes to dream big and aim high.
A New Era for Indian Paralympics
The success of Indian athletes in Paris is a clear indication that the country is now a force to be reckoned with in the Paralympic Games, especially in athletics. This historic performance has set a new benchmark for future competitions and has shown the world that Indian athletes are capable of achieving greatness on the global stage.
As the Paris Paralympics continue, India’s medal count may still grow, adding even more to this remarkable chapter in the history of Indian sports.
