Paris Paralympic Games 2024

India achieved its best-ever performance at the Paris Paralympic Games 2024, securing a total of 29 medals—including 7 gold, 9 silver, and 13 bronze. This marks a significant improvement from previous games and highlights the growing success of Indian para-athletes on the global stage.

What are the Key Facts About the Paralympics?

About:

• The Paralympics is the largest international multi-sport event for athletes with disabilities, held shortly after the Olympic Games. The first Olympic-style games for disabled athletes were held in Rome in 1960. It is organized by the International Paralympic Committee (IPC), which is recognized by the International Olympic Committee (IOC).

Venue:

• An agreement between the IOC and IPC on 19th June 2001 established the "one bid, one city" principle, meaning that cities bidding for the Olympics must also include the Paralympics in their bid.

Paris Paralympic Games 2024:

1. Dates: 28th August to 8th September 2024
2. Participants: Approximately 4,400 athletes from around the world
3. Sports Discipline: Athletes competed in 22 sports, showcasing a wide range of athletic talents
4. Mascot: The mascot for the Paris Paralympic Games 2024 is the Phrygian cap, symbolizing liberty and freedom.

Overall Performance:

1. Top Finishers:

   1. China: 94 gold medals
   2. Great Britain: 49 gold medals
   3. United States: 36 gold medals

How Was India’s Performance in the Paris Paralympic Games 2024?

1. Delegation:
   India sent a delegation of 84 para-athletes, competing in 12 disciplines. New additions included para-cycling, para-rowing, and blind judo, up from 9 disciplines in Tokyo 2021.

2. Performance:
   India secured a total of 29 medals: 7 golds, 9 silvers, and 13 bronzes. India finished in 18th position overall and crossed the milestone of 50 medals in the history of the Paralympic Games.

3. Historical Comparison:
   India won 12 medals from its debut in 1968 (Tel Aviv, Israel) up to 2016, including four medals at the Rio Games in 2016. In the following two editions, Tokyo 2021 and Paris 2024, India’s performance improved significantly, winning a combined total of 48 medals and bringing the total medal count to 60.

4. Notable Achievement:
   Gold in Javelin Throw: Navdeep Singh won India’s first-ever gold medal in the men’s javelin throw F41 category after a disqualification led to his elevation from silver. The F41 category is for field athletes with short stature.

What are the Government Initiatives for Sport Promotion?

1. Target Olympic Podium Scheme (TOPS): Aims to provide financial support and other resources to top athletes with the potential to win medals at the Olympics and Paralympics.
2. Fit India Movement: A national campaign to promote fitness and wellness among citizens, encouraging participation in sports and physical activities.
3. Khelo India: A program designed to identify and nurture young sporting talent at the grassroots level, with a focus on creating a sporting culture in the country.
4. National Sports Awards Scheme: Recognizes and honors athletes and coaches for their outstanding contributions to sports.
5. National Sports Development Fund (NSDF): Provides financial assistance for the development of sports infrastructure, training facilities, and support for athletes.

Conclusion

India's performance at the Paris Paralympic Games 2024 reflects a significant leap in the country's sporting achievements, marking its best-ever result at the Paralympics. With a record number of medals and notable individual performances, India's para-athletes have showcased their talent and determination on a global stage. The continued support from government initiatives and evolving sports infrastructure is likely to further enhance India’s prospects in future international competitions.

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