Paris Paralympics 2024: India’s Delegation Set for Grand Opening with Over 100 Members
The excitement for the Paris 2024 Paralympics is at an all-time high as the Games are set to kick off with a grand opening ceremony today. More than 100 members of the Indian contingent will proudly represent the country at this historic event, including 52 athletes. Among them, javelin thrower Sumit Antil (F64) and shot-putter Bhagyashree Jadhav (F34) will serve as the joint flag bearers for India, symbolizing the nation’s hopes and aspirations on this prestigious global stage.
What makes this year’s opening ceremony truly unique is that, for the first time in the history of the Games, it will be held outside a stadium. The ceremony is set to unfold at the iconic Champs-Élysées and Place de la Concorde, bringing the spirit of the Paralympics directly into the heart of Paris. This monumental change reflects the evolving nature of the Games and the growing recognition of para-athletes across the world.
However, some athletes, including the 10-member shooting team, will be sitting out the opening parade. These athletes, whose competitions are scheduled for Thursday, are focusing on their upcoming events to ensure top performances.
India’s Push for Glory in Paris
India has sent a record 84-member team to Paris for the 2024 Paralympics, along with 95 support personnel, making the total delegation 179 strong. The support team includes personal coaches and assistants catering to the special needs of the athletes, reflecting India’s commitment to ensuring the best possible environment for its athletes to excel.
The stakes are high for Team India, which delivered a historic performance at the Tokyo 2021 Paralympics, winning 19 medals, including five golds. This success has set the stage for even greater ambitions in Paris. The Indian contingent is aiming to surpass its previous record, with hopes of winning over 25 medals and doubling its gold medal count.
This time, India will compete in 12 sports, expanding its presence from the nine sports it participated in during the Tokyo Paralympics. The expanded participation is a clear indication of India’s rising status in the Paralympic movement, with hopes of bringing back a rich haul of medals.
Indian Paralympic Committee’s Statement
Devendra Jhajharia, President of the Indian Paralympic Committee, emphasized the strategic decisions behind the athletes’ participation in the opening ceremony. “Athletes with events scheduled for August 29 will not be part of the ceremony. This is to ensure they are fully focused and prepared for their competitions. While the shooting team won’t be in the parade, the rest of the 106-member contingent, including athletes and officials, will proudly represent the country during the opening,” Jhajharia said.
As the Games begin, all eyes will be on Paris, where India’s para-athletes are ready to write another glorious chapter in the nation’s sports history. With their unwavering determination and the full support of their team, India is poised to make a strong mark at the 2024 Paralympics.
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