The Impressive TimesParis : The 2024 Paralympic Games kick off today in Paris, marking the first time France is hosting the Summer edition of the Games. Running until September 8, this event follows France’s previous role as host for the Winter Paralympics in Tignes and Albertville in 1992.
India is making a significant mark this year with its largest-ever delegation, comprising 84 para athletes—an unprecedented number for the nation. Indian competitors will be participating in 12 out of the 22 sports featured in Paris 2024, with the country making its debut in para cycling, para judo, and para rowing.
Highlighting India’s participation, Krishna Nagar is set to defend his men’s singles title in para badminton. Avani Lekhara and Manish Narwal are gearing up for the para shooting events, while other Indian athletes will compete in para archery, para taekwondo, para swimming, and para table tennis starting tomorrow. Para athletics, featuring 38 Indian athletes, will begin on September 6. Javelin thrower Sumit Antil, a Tokyo 2020 gold medallist in the F64 category, will be a key figure, as will Bhavina Patel, who holds the world record in the women’s singles category. Patel, India’s first Paralympic medallist in table tennis, will also compete in the women’s doubles with Sonalben Patel.
From September 4, the focus will shift to para powerlifting, where athletes Parmjeet Kumar, Ashok, Sakina Khatun, and Kasthuri Rajamani will strive for India’s first medal in this discipline since Athens 2004. The Paralympic debutants in judo, Kapil Parmar and Kokila, will take to the mat on September 5. The final group of Indian competitors, a three-member para canoe team, will start their races on September 6.
The Games will culminate with the Closing Ceremony on September 9, celebrating the accomplishments and resilience of athletes from around the world. The event promises to showcase a blend of thrilling competitions and heartfelt moments, reflecting the spirit of inclusion and excellence that defines the Paralympic movement.
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