India’s para‑athletes celebrated a historic triumph in New Delhi on Saturday as Union Minister of Youth Affairs & Sports, Mansukh Mandaviya, handed out cash awards and praised the team’s record‑breaking performance.
The 2025 World Para Athletics Championships, held at India’s Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium, marked the largest para‑sport event ever organized in the country. More than 2,100 athletes from 100 nations competed in 186 medal events, and India earned its best‑ever finish: 10th place overall with 22 medals—six gold, nine silver, and seven bronze.
A Nation’s Pride
Mandaviya greeted the medal‑winning athletes with enthusiasm. “You are power athletes of Bharat,” he said. “Your courage and determination have brought pride to our nation and inspired people with disabilities.” He highlighted the joy the Prime Minister, Narendra Modi, felt watching the competitions on television and his interest in the athletes’ progress.
The minister’s visit followed the “world‑record” celebration of the event. The Department of Sports awarded athletes more than Rs 1.09 crore in cash prizes, showing how quickly the government follows up on a successful championship.
Global Praise and Local Support
During the ceremony, Devendra Jhajharia, President of the Paralympic Committee of India, commended the support from the Sports Ministry, the Sports Authority of India (SAI), and volunteers. “The WPA presented us with a trophy on the final day for our hosting success. We’re ready for more events in India,” he added. International officials, including IPC’s Andrew Parsons and World Para Athletics President Paul Fitzgerald, praised the event’s facilities and organization, saying they were world‑class.
Athletes echoed their thanks. Sailesh Kumar, India’s first gold‑medallist at the championships, described the excitement and the confidence the track and venue gave him. “The MONDO track was excellent, and the gym and fitness centre nearby help us train,” he said. Preeti Pal, a double‑medallist sprinter, highlighted the medical centre’s role, especially the ice bath that helped her recover quickly between races.
Sumit Antil, another competitor, thanked the local volunteers and SAI staff for their assistance in hotels and transport, underscoring the smooth logistics that helped the athletes focus on their performance.
A New Definition of Courage
Mandaviya concluded by stressing the athletes’ transformation of disability into determination. “You have turned wheelchairs into wings, and that is a new definition of courage,” he said. “Your achievements win not just medals, but also the hearts of the people. We are proud of you.” He added that the athletes’ mental resilience would inspire future generations across the country.
The New Delhi 2025 World Para Athletics Championships have set a benchmark for para‑sport events in India, combining world‑class facilities, strong governmental support, and a winning team spirit. The medals won and the cash awards given in just a few days after the competitions highlight how quickly India can celebrate and reward its athletes.
Source: aninews
Stay informed on all the latest news, real-time breaking news updates, and follow all the important headlines in world News on Latest NewsX. Follow us on social media Facebook, Twitter(X), Gettr and subscribe our Youtube Channel.
