India’s Para Athletes Shine at World Para Athletics Championships 2025

para-athletes
Spread the love

India’s para athletes achieved a historic milestone at the World Para Athletics Championships 2025 held in New Delhi, delivering their best-ever performance with a record 22 medals — including 6 Gold, 9 Silver, and 7 Bronze — and securing the 10th position globally. In recognition of their exceptional achievement, Union Minister of Youth Affairs & Sports and Labour & Employment, Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya, felicitated the medal-winning contingent, lauding their unwavering spirit, perseverance, and determination.

Celebrating a Historic Feat
The felicitation ceremony honoured India’s para athletes for their extraordinary performance that brought glory to the nation. The Department of Sports, Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports, awarded cash prizes exceeding ₹1.09 crore to the athletes in acknowledgment of their outstanding achievements.

Dr. Mandaviya, in his address, said, “You are not para athletes, but Power Athletes of Bharat. You have shown the nation what true strength and determination look like. These medals are not just metal, but proof of your unshakeable willpower.”

Transforming Disability into Determination
Commending the athletes for their mental fortitude and inspiring journey, the Minister stated, “You have transformed disability into determination. This new definition of courage will inspire generations to come. When intent is strong, even wheelchairs can become wings.”

He also highlighted that Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi had closely followed the athletes’ performances and personally enquired about their progress. “The spirit of New India, envisioned by the Prime Minister, is embodied in each of you,” said Dr. Mandaviya.

India’s Successful Hosting of a Global Para-Sport Event
The World Para Athletics Championships 2025, held at Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium, New Delhi, was the largest para-sport event ever organized in India, with participation from over 2,100 athletes representing 100 countries across 186 medal events. The event received international acclaim for its organization, infrastructure, and athlete support systems.

Praise from International Bodies
Devendra Jhajharia, President of the Paralympic Committee of India (PCI), praised the Ministry and Sports Authority of India (SAI) for their collaborative efforts, which led to India receiving a trophy from World Para Athletics (WPA) for successfully hosting the event. He shared that both IPC President Andrew Parsons and World Para Athletics President Paul Fitzgerald commended India for providing world-class facilities and seamless event management.

Athletes Appreciate MONDO Track and Facilities
Gold medalist Sumit Antil appreciated the MONDO track used during the championship, saying it was of international standard and greatly enhanced their performance. “The hotels, transport, and overall organization were excellent,” he said.
First gold winner Sailesh Kumar also praised the facilities, noting the proximity of gyms and training centres as a great support. Double medalist Preeti Pal mentioned that the medical and recovery facilities, especially the ice bath setup, played a vital role in athlete recovery between races.

Inspiration for the Future
Dr. Mandaviya concluded the ceremony by reaffirming the government’s commitment to promoting para-sports and ensuring equal opportunities for all athletes. “You have proven that strength lies not in the body, but in the spirit. The whole nation stands behind you as you continue to inspire the youth of Bharat,” he said.

This landmark performance not only symbolizes India’s growing prominence in global para-sports but also highlights the government’s sustained efforts in fostering inclusivity, empowerment, and sporting excellence.

Unlocking RERA 100 Landmark Rulings and 1 Year Subscription