Manashimaya
India has etched a new chapter in its sporting history by setting a remarkable new Paralympic record with 20 medals. This unprecedented achievement not only surpasses the country’s previous best of 19 medals from the Tokyo Paralympics but also highlights a stellar performance from its athletes, particularly in track and field events.
On Tuesday, India’s track and field athletes delivered an extraordinary performance, contributing significantly to the country’s medal tally. The late evening rush of medals was a testament to the grit and determination of these athletes. India now boasts a medal haul of 20—comprising 3 gold, 7 silver, and 10 bronze. This new record, achieved at the iconic Stade de France, marks a historic milestone for Indian para sports.
The outstanding performance by India’s javelin throwers and high jumpers was pivotal in setting this new Paralympic record. Ajeet Singh and Sundar Singh Gurjar, both prominent figures in the F46 category, clinched silver and bronze with impressive throws of 65.62m and 64.96m respectively. Their achievements were crucial in propelling India to its new Paralympic record with 20 medals. Similarly, in the high jump T63 finals, Sharad Kumar and Mariyappan Thangavelu secured silver and bronze, showcasing their incredible talent and dedication.
In another notable performance, Deepthi Jeevanji made a mark by winning bronze in the women’s 400m (T20) event. This 20-year-old sprinter, who has overcome personal and societal challenges, contributed to the impressive tally, reinforcing the theme of India setting a new Paralympic record with 20 medals. Her story of resilience and triumph adds a human touch to this historic achievement.
While the overall success is a reason for celebration, some athletes fell short of podium finishes. Ace shooter Avani Lekhara, who had previously made headlines, finished fifth in the women’s 50m rifle 3 positions SH1 competition. Despite this, her back-to-back gold medals in the 10m air rifle event earlier in the Games underscore her exceptional calibre. Lekhara’s contributions were instrumental in India’s quest for a new Paralympic record with 20 medals.
Bhagyashri Jadhav, making her second Paralympic appearance, also added to the narrative. Her fifth-place finish in the women’s shot put (F34) with a throw of 7.28m reflected her resilience and determination. Jadhav’s journey from personal adversity to Paralympic competition resonates with the broader story of India’s success at these Games.
Furthermore, archer Pooja Jatyan’s journey ended in the quarter-finals, but her initial victory and subsequent performance demonstrated her competitive spirit. Her match against China’s Wu Chunyan, though a painful loss, highlighted the competitive edge of Indian athletes. Despite falling short, Pooja’s efforts contributed to the overarching theme of India’s record-breaking achievement.
In conclusion, India’s achievement of setting a new Paralympic record with 20 medals is a testament to the dedication and hard work of its athletes. This historic accomplishment not only surpasses previous records but also celebrates the spirit of perseverance and excellence in Indian para sports. As the country celebrates this significant milestone, it reflects on a journey marked by outstanding performances and inspiring stories of triumph over adversity.
