India’s Paralympic Surge: Aiming for Glory in Paris

India has dispatched its largest-ever contingent of 84 para-athletes to the upcoming Paralympic Games in Paris, aiming for a historic medal tally. The nation, which first participated in the Paralympics in 1968, had a modest total of 12 medals by 2016. However, recent years have seen a dramatic rise, with 19 medals won in Tokyo 2021 alone. Now, hopes are high that the tally could exceed 25 in Paris. This growth reflects a broader recognition and support for para-sports in India, both from public awareness and government backing. Investments in facilities have surged, with significant contributions from initiatives like the Target Olympic Podium Scheme (TOPS). Athletes like Sumit Antil, who aims to break records in javelin, are set to capture the nation’s attention, further propelling para-sports into the mainstream. This wave of support marks a significant shift from the struggles of earlier years, signaling a promising future for India’s Paralympians.