Aiming Higher: India's Para Athletes Set to Give Paris Paralympic Games a Strong Showing

India is gearing up for an extraordinary showing at the Paris Paralympic Games, sending its largest-ever contingent of 84 athletes, each ready to chase the ultimate glory on the world’s grandest stage. With a record-breaking 19 medals, including 5 Gold medals, from the Tokyo Paralympics, the stakes are higher than ever. So, let’s dive into the stories of India’s top medal contenders at the Paris Games.

Sumit Antil, Javelin Throw

Sumit Antil, one of India’s flag-bearers at the Paris Paralympics, is a name that resonates with power and precision. In Tokyo, he shattered the world record thrice to claim gold in the javelin throw, and he hasn’t stopped since. With a jaw-dropping throw of 73.29 meters at the 2022 Asian Para Games in Hangzhou, Antil solidified his status as a favourite to strike gold again in Paris. All eyes will be on him as India hopes he’ll once more redefine the boundaries of human potential.

Krishna Nagar - Men’s Singles Badminton

Krishna Nagar, who defied all odds at the Tokyo Paralympics by clinching gold in Men’s Singles Badminton, never let his physical height set limits on his life. His recent triumph at the World Championships in Pattaya has only fueled his ambition. Nagar enters Paris as one of India’s brightest medal hopes, ready to soar beyond expectations once more.

Sheetal Devi - Archery

Sheetal Devi, at just 17 years old, is set to make a sensational debut at the Paris Paralympics. As the world’s first and only international Para-Archer without upper limbs, her performance at the 2022 Asian Para Games—where she claimed 2 gold medals and a silver—speaks volumes about her unparalleled talent and determination. Sheetal is not just a contender; she’s a phenomenon poised to reach the podium.

Avani Lekhara - Shooting

Avani Lekhara, who etched her name in history by becoming the first Indian woman to win Paralympic gold in Tokyo, is back and hungrier than ever. Her bronze in the R8 women’s 50m rifle 3 positions event added another accolade to her debut. Now, as she prepares to compete in three shooting events in Paris, India is counting on her to extend her golden legacy.

Manasi Joshi - Women’s Singles Badminton

Manasi Joshi, who began her para-badminton journey in 2015, is all set to make her Paralympics debut in Paris. Currently ranked third in the BWF Para Badminton rankings, Joshi has already built an impressive career. As she steps onto the Paralympic stage for the first time, her eyes are firmly set on a podium finish, aiming to make her debut unforgettable.

With a blend of seasoned champions ready to defend their titles and new talents eager to shine, India’s largest-ever Paralympic contingent is poised to surpass the historic 19 medals won in Tokyo. This is more than just a competition; it’s a moment of national pride. Get ready to witness history in the making.