India’s Para Athletes Shine With 22 Medals At World Para Athletics Championships 2025
Union Minister of Youth Affairs and Sports, Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya, on Saturday felicitated India’s para athletes for their historic performance at the World Para Athletics Championships 2025, held in New Delhi. The Indian contingent secured an unprecedented 22 medals—6 gold, 9 silver, and 7 bronze—finishing 10th in the overall standings, marking the country’s best-ever showing at the prestigious global event.
Addressing the athletes during the felicitation ceremony, Dr. Mandaviya hailed them as “Power Athletes of Bharat,” emphasizing their remarkable spirit and resilience. “You are not just para athletes; you embody the vision of New India championed by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Your achievements have transformed disability into determination, inspiring future generations,” he said. He further noted that the medals were not mere metal but a testament to the athletes’ unshakeable willpower, adding, “When intent is strong, wheelchairs can become wings.”
The Department of Sports, under the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports, awarded cash prizes totaling over Rs 1.09 crore to the medalists, with the disbursal completed within seven days of the event’s conclusion—a move lauded as a testament to the government’s commitment to sports.
The Championships, hosted at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium, marked India’s largest-ever para-sport event, with over 2,100 participants from 100 countries competing in 186 medal events. The event earned international acclaim for its world-class facilities and organization, with the Paralympic Committee of India (PCI), Sports Authority of India (SAI), and the Sports Ministry working in tandem.
PCI President Devendra Jhajharia praised the collaborative efforts, noting, “The World Para Athletics body awarded us a trophy for successfully hosting the event. They expressed eagerness for India to host more such events, commending the high-quality facilities and technical conduct.” He highlighted the MONDO track at the stadium, which athletes credited for enhancing their performance.
Sumit Antil, a medalist, said, “The MONDO track in both the warm-up and competition areas was exceptional. The hotels, transportation, and support from local volunteers, SAI, and PCI were outstanding.” Sailesh Kumar, who won India’s first gold at the Championships, added, “The track and home crowd support were incredible. The nearby gym and fitness center were also very helpful.” Double medalist Preeti Pal praised the medical facilities, particularly the ice bath, which aided sprinters’ recovery between races.
Dr. Mandaviya reiterated the athletes’ mental fortitude, stating, “Your courage has redefined what it means to overcome challenges. The entire nation is proud of you, not just for the medals but for winning our hearts.”
