New Delhi: Sumit Antil, who won a gold medal for India in the Tokyo Paralympics, and Bhagyashree Jadhav, the Asian Para Games silver medalist, have been announced as the Indian flag-bearers at the opening ceremony of the upcoming Paris Paralympics 2024. The marquee event is scheduled to kick off on August 28 and will go on till September 8. It is noteworthy that this will be the largest-ever Indian contingent for the Paralympics in history.
“Antil and Bhagyashree have been consistent performers over the years. They will be Indian flag-bearers at the Paris Paralympics’ athletes march past,” Devendra Jhajharia, Paralympic Committee of India (PCI) chief told news agency PTI. Sumit, a javelin thrower from the state of Haryana, won a gold medal in Tokyo Paralympics with a world record throw of 68.55 metres in the F64 category.
His next exploit was winning a gold at the World Para Championships last year. He also shattered his own record at the Asian Para Games with a throw of 73.29 metres. Meanwhile, Bhagyashree, who competes in the F34 category, bagged a silver medal at the Asian Para Games for India. She also claimed a medal at the FAZZA World Cup.
The Indian contingent comprises 84 athletes who will take part across 12 disciplines in the Paralympics slated for 12 days. India brought 19 medals back home from the last edition that took place in Tokyo.
Mansukh Mandaviya sees Paralympians off
Union Minister of Youth Affairs and Sports and Labour & Employment Mansukh Mandaviya hosted the Indian contingent in a send-off ceremony held in New Delhi on Friday. He extended his best wishes to the Indian athletes and praised them saying, “Our para-athletes possess a remarkable ability to overcome obstacles and turn challenges into opportunities. Para-athletes embody the spirit of India and serve as a profound source of inspiration for our 1.4 billion citizens.”
He also talked about the government’s commitment towards the athletes in terms of their preparation ranging from equipment to providing them with resources. He also highlighted the contribution of the Khelo India initiative which has nurtured the development of many athletes and the support given to 50 para-athletes via the Target Olympic Podium Scheme (TOPS).
Photo – SAI
Photo – SAI
“This time, we are sending the largest-ever contingent of 84 para-athletes who will be participating in 12 games,” he mentioned. The Indian athletes will compete in 12 sports including archery, athletics, badminton, canoeing, cycling, blind judo, powerlifting, rowing, shooting, swimming, table tennis, and taekwondo.
The Union Minister also appreciated the invaluable support of the families and coaches towards these athletes saying, “I want to extend my wishes to your families and coaches who have stood by you from the beginning of your journey.”
Sumit Antil and Bhagyashree Jadhav have been named as flag-bearers of the largest-ever Indian contingent for the Paralympics scheduled in Paris. Union Minister Mansukh Mandaviya gave them a grand send-off on Friday. Other Sports Sports News: Latest Cricket News, Cricket Live Score, Sports Breaking News from Sports Today
