22 Medals, 10th Spot: Para Athletes Define “New India” with Grit and Glory
In a stirring display of resilience and passion, Indian para athletes have rewritten history at the World Para Athletics Championships, securing a haul of 22 medals and finishing 10th overall — the nation’s best-ever result at the global meet.
At a felicitation ceremony held in New Delhi, Union Sports Minister Mansukh Mandaviya showered praise on the medal winners, declaring them true embodiments of a “New India.” “You are not para athletes, but Power Athletes of Bharat,” he told them, noting how they had turned “wheelchairs into wings” through determination.
A Historic Medal Haul
- The 22 medals include 6 gold, 9 silver, and 7 bronze.
- India’s 10th-place finish marks a significant leap in global para athletics standings.
- The Championships saw participation from over 100 countries across 186 events, making it one of the largest para-athletic meets ever.
Recognition, Rewards & Infrastructure
Mandaviya announced cash awards exceeding ₹1.09 crore for the medalists, commending their dedication and the barriers they overcame. myKhel+2The Statesman+2 He also credited the Paralympic Committee of India (PCI), Sports Authority of India (SAI), and the Ministry for orchestrating top-tier facilities and support.
PCI President Devendra Jhajharia affirmed that international bodies praised the championships’ conduct and infrastructure, with the event earning a trophy from World Para Athletics for successfully hosting the meet.
Looking Ahead
As India basks in this collective triumph, the message is clear: the spirit of determination is redefining sport in the country. With this landmark performance, the para athletes have set a new benchmark — not just in medals, but in symbolizing strength, dignity, and the promise of an inclusive sporting future.
