India’s Paralympic Journey in Paris: A Historic Medal Surge
India’s athletes have made the nation proud once again Paris Paralympics, with a series of remarkable performances at the Paris 2024 Paralympic Games. Day 6 was a particularly memorable day for India, as the country’s athletes clinched five medals—two silver and three bronze—pushing India’s total medal count to a record 20. This achievement marks the first time India has crossed the 20-medal mark at the Paralympics, surpassing its previous best of 19 medals at the Tokyo 2020 Paralympics.
Historic Wins in Track and Field
India’s track and field athletes led the charge on Day 6 of Paris Paralympics, securing five medals at the Stade de France. Among the standout performances were those of javelin throwers Ajeet Singh and Sundar Singh Gurjar. Competing in the F46 category, Ajeet Singh threw an impressive 65.62 meters to win silver, while Sundar Singh Gurjar, the world record holder in the event, secured bronze with a throw of 64.96 meters.
The F46 category is specifically designed for athletes with moderately affected movement in one or both arms or the absence of limbs. This category showcases the resilience and determination of athletes who overcome physical challenges to compete at the highest level.
In the men’s high jump T63 final, India celebrated another milestone as Mariyappan Thangavelu became the first Indian athlete to win three Paralympic medals. Thangavelu, who had previously won gold at the Rio 2016 Paralympics and silver at Tokyo 2020, clinched bronze in Paris Paralympics with a jump of 1.85 meters. His compatriot, Sharad Kumar, won silver in the same event with a jump of 1.88 meters.
The T63 category is for athletes with movement moderately affected in one leg or those with the absence of limbs above the knee. These athletes demonstrate incredible athleticism and determination, pushing the boundaries of what is possible.
Deepthi Jeevanji’s Remarkable Debut
Deepthi Jeevanji, a world champion sprinter, made an impressive Paralympic debut by winning bronze in the women’s 400m T20 event. Jeevanji clocked a time of 55.82 seconds, finishing behind Yuliia Shuliar of Ukraine and world record holder Aysel Onder of Turkey.
Jeevanji’s journey to the Paris Paralympics is nothing short of inspirational. Growing up in Kalleda Village in Telangana’s Warangal district, she faced numerous challenges due to her intellectual impairment. Despite the odds, she persevered, winning gold at the Asian Para Games and breaking the world record at the Para World Championships earlier this year. Her success in Paris has not only brought pride to her village but has also highlighted the incredible potential of athletes with intellectual impairments.
The T20 category is specifically for athletes with intellectual impairments, demonstrating that determination and hard work can overcome any obstacle.
Avani Lekhara’s Close Call
Avani Lekhara, one of India’s most celebrated Paralympic shooters, narrowly missed out on a second medal in Paris Paralympics. Competing in the women’s 50m rifle 3 positions SH1 event, Lekhara finished fifth in a highly competitive field. She shot a total of 420.6 across the kneeling, prone, and standing stages.
While she may not have secured a medal in this event, Lekhara has plenty to celebrate. She became the first Indian woman to win consecutive gold medals at the Paralympics after finishing first in the 10m air rifle competition earlier in the Games.
The SH1 class is designated for athletes with lower-limb impairments who are able to compete in rifle shooting events. These athletes demonstrate exceptional skill and focus, proving that disability is no barrier to excellence.
Bhagyashri Jadhav’s Resilience
Bhagyashri Jadhav, making her second appearance at the Paris Paralympics, finished fifth in the women’s shot put (F34) with a throw of 7.28 meters. Although it was not enough for a podium finish, Jadhav’s story is one of incredible resilience.
Hailing from Nanded district in Maharashtra, Jadhav faced a life-altering accident in 2006 that left her unable to use her legs. Despite the challenges, she fought back with the support of friends and family, eventually reclaiming her life as a para-athlete.
The F34 category is for athletes with coordination impairments, such as hypertonia, ataxia, or athetoid movements. Jadhav’s performance is a testament to the strength of the human spirit.
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Pooja Jatyan’s Tough Loss
World Para Championship silver medallist Pooja Jatyan had a mixed campaign in the recurve women’s open archery competition. After a strong start, where she defeated Turkey’s Yagmur Sengul in straight sets to reach the quarterfinals, Jatyan faced a tough opponent in Wu Chunyan of China.
Despite leading 4-0 at one point, Jatyan was unable to sustain her momentum and eventually lost to Chunyan, who has won multiple Paralympic medals, including a team gold at the Rio 2016 Games. It was a heart-breaking loss for Jatyan, but her performance remains commendable.
India’s Medal Tally and Future Prospects
India’s medal tally at the Paris Paralympics stands at 20, with 3 gold, 7 silver, and 10 bronze medals. This achievement places India at 17th place in the overall medal standings, a significant improvement from previous years. The country’s athletes have shown incredible dedication and resilience, paving the way for future successes.
As India celebrates these achievements, it’s important to recognize the hard work and determination of all the athletes who competed in Paris. Their performances have not only brought pride to the nation but have also inspired millions of people around the world.
Table: India’s Medal Tally at Paris Paralympics
| Event | Athlete(s) | Medal |
|---|---|---|
| Javelin Throw F46 | Ajeet Singh, Sundar Singh Gurjar | Silver, Bronze |
| High Jump T63 | Mariyappan Thangavelu, Sharad Kumar | Bronze, Silver |
| 400m T20 | Deepthi Jeevanji | Bronze |
| 10m Air Rifle SH1 | Avani Lekhara | Gold |
Conclusion
India’s success at the Paris Paralympics is a testament to the grit, determination, and resilience of its athletes. From record-breaking performances to inspiring comebacks, these athletes have set a new benchmark for excellence in sports. As the country celebrates this historic achievement, it also looks forward to even greater success in the future, with the hope that these stories of triumph will inspire a new generation of para-athletes.
FAQs
- What is the significance of India’s medal tally at the Paris Paralympics?
- India achieved a historic milestone by surpassing its previous best medal haul, reaching a total of 20 medals for the first time.
- Who became the first Indian to win three Paralympic medals?
- Mariyappan Thangavelu achieved this feat by winning a bronze in the men’s high jump T63 at Paris 2024.
- What challenges did Deepthi Jeevanji face in her journey to the Paralympics?
- Deepthi Jeevanji, diagnosed with intellectual impairment, overcame societal challenges and went on to win a bronze in the women’s 400m T20 event.
- How did Avani Lekhara perform at the Paris Paralympics?
- Avani Lekhara finished fifth in the women’s 50m rifle 3 positions SH1 event but earlier won a gold in the 10m air rifle competition.
- What is the F46 category in Paralympic athletics?
- The F46 category is for athletes with moderately affected movement in one or both arms or the absence of limbs, showcasing their ability to compete despite physical challenges
