India's Para-Athletes Celebrate Historic Achievements and Future Aspirations
Celebrating Success at the Asian Para Games
On November 5, the president of the Paralympic Committee of India, Devendra Jhajharia, along with para-athletics head coach KR Satyanarayana, expressed their gratitude towards Prime Minister Narendra Modi for his unwavering support of para-athletes and the advancement of para-sports in India. They conveyed optimism about India's prospects at the upcoming 2028 Los Angeles Paralympic Games.
During a gathering at the Indira Gandhi Sports Complex in New Delhi, PM Modi congratulated the Indian contingent for their remarkable achievement at the Asian Para Games in Aichi-Nagoya, where India secured fourth place with a record-breaking total of 114 medals.
Jhajharia remarked that the Prime Minister's engagement significantly uplifted the spirits of para-athletes, attributing the nation's success at the Asian Para Games to government initiatives and enhanced facilities. He expressed confidence that India would achieve historic results at the 2028 Paralympics, noting that preparations commenced three years ago.
He stated, 'The Prime Minister's meetings with our para-athletes instill immense enthusiasm. His acknowledgment of their achievements today was heartening. For the first time, India ranked fourth in the medal standings. In 2010, we won just one gold medal, but by 2026, we achieved 30 golds. This transformation is remarkable, thanks to initiatives like the Target Olympic Podium Scheme and Khelo India Para Games. I extend my gratitude to PM Modi for boosting the morale of our para-athletes today, reminding them of the pride they bring to 140 crore Indians.'
Looking ahead to the LA Games, Jhajharia emphasized, 'Our preparations began three years ago. The era of last-minute Olympic training is over. PM Modi is dedicated to supporting athletes and providing necessary facilities. Our para-athletes are poised to deliver an outstanding performance in LA.'
A Bright Future for Para-Sports
Satyanarayana also acknowledged PM Modi's role in elevating the status of Paralympic sports and enhancing recognition for para-athletes. He expressed confidence that India would surpass its previous medal tally of 29 at the 2028 Games, with many athletes likely to secure multiple medals.
'This was my sixth meeting with the Prime Minister, and his energy was inspiring. I first met him in 2016 after the Rio Paralympics. His influence has significantly raised the profile of Paralympic sports, leading to greater respect for athletes in our country. It was a pleasure to meet him today; he commended everyone during his address and discussed preparations for the 2028 Paralympics, assuring us of full government support. I dreamt of enhancing school sports programs, and I am thrilled to see the government's commitment to this initiative,' he remarked.
'Athletes seek respect, and the Prime Minister honored them today. They are gaining recognition nationwide through media and social platforms. After winning 29 medals in the last Paralympics, we aim for 35, with a focus on gold medals. Many of our athletes are expected to win double medals in LA. Sports is a collaborative effort,' he added.
India's Remarkable Performance at the Asian Para Games
India concluded the Asian Para Games 2026 with an impressive tally of 30 gold, 35 silver, and 49 bronze medals, surpassing its previous record of 108 medals from the 2022 Hangzhou edition. The contingent comprised 168 para-athletes, a significant reduction from the 309 who represented India in the previous Games.
The campaign showcased several outstanding performances across various disciplines. In para-badminton, reigning Paralympic champion Nitesh Kumar triumphed over compatriot Pramod Bhagat in the men's singles SL3 final to secure gold, while Thulasimathi Murugesan and Manasi Joshi clinched the women's doubles SL3-SU5 title.
In para-archery, Harvinder Singh and Vijay Sundi won gold in men's recurve doubles, while Pooja Jatyan and Bhawna Choudhary earned silver in the women's event.
India also achieved world-record performances in para-athletics, with Haney winning gold in the men's javelin F37/38 and Sandeep claiming the men's 400m T64 title. The country swept all three medals in the men's javelin F42-F44/F61-F64 event, with Sumit taking gold, Mahendra Gurjar silver, and Sandip Sanjay Sargar bronze.
Mona Agarwal added to the achievements in para-shooting, winning gold in the women's 50m rifle 3 positions SH1 and setting both world and Asian Para Games records.
India's remarkable 114-medal haul underscores its growing prowess in para-sports.