India’s speed skating stars made history at the 73rd Inline Speed Skating World Championships 2025, and Union Minister Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya celebrated their big wins on Wednesday.
The championships took place in Beidaihe, China, from September 13 to 21. India’s national team delivered their best performance yet, grabbing five medals—three golds and two bronzes—to finish fifth out of more than 40 countries. This marked a huge milestone for Indian skating, including the country’s first senior medal at a world championship, its first gold in the junior category, and the highest medal tally ever at the event.
Dr. Mandaviya, who handles Youth Affairs & Sports and Labour & Employment, praised the team during the ceremony in New Delhi. “These historic medals at the World Championships show that our youth are conquering new frontiers, be it in mainstream or emerging sports,” he said. “I wholeheartedly congratulate our athletes, coaches, support staff, and the Roller-Skating Federation of India for bringing glory to Bharat with this remarkable performance.”
Leading the charge was 22-year-old Anandkumar Velkumar, who became the first Indian to snag a senior medal. He powered to two gold medals—one in the 1000m sprint and another in the tough 42,195 km marathon. Velkumar also picked up a bronze in the 500m sprint.
In the junior ranks, 18-year-old Krish Sharma claimed India’s first-ever junior gold in the 1000m sprint event. Meanwhile, 17-year-old Anish Raj earned a bronze in the Junior Men’s One Lap Sprint.
A total of 20 Indian athletes competed across 42 events for both seniors and juniors. The team featured four senior men, four senior women, five junior men, and seven junior women, facing off against top talent from over 40 nations.
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