India’s contingent for Paris Paralympics 2024 received a grand send-off on Friday with the Union Sports Minister Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya boosting their morale to record the best-ever performance at the Games.
Mandaviya and the Minister of State for Sports, Ms. Raksha Khadse unanimously addressed the athletes as the “pride of the nation” and expressed their confidence in them to produce more inspiring stories and fascinating journeys.
“Your journey is very inspirational. For most of us, it is a learning experience, ” said Ms Raksha, as she recalled the film depicting Murlikant Petkar in Chandu Champion and the fascinating journey of the 17-year-old archer Sheetal Devi.
“At the government, we do everything we can to support you. The government is with you. Am sure you will get more than 25 medals. And when you come back, there should be regional language interviews of our champions so that their inspirational journey reaches the people”, said Ms. Raksha.
The Paralympics Committee Of India (PCI) Devendra Jhajharia showed his confidence in India’s largest contingent ever of 84 members to produce more than 25 medals at the Paris Games.
“We had 56 athletes in Tokyo, competing in 12 disciplines. Now, we compete in three more disciplines. All the athletes have had excellent training. We have 47 first-timers in the Paralympics. Many have already reached Paris and are training well”, said Jhajaria.
The double Paralympics gold medallist also advised the athletes not to be weighed down by the pressure of expectations.
“Don’t come under pressure. You have to give your best. Once you do that, medal will be assured”, he said, equally confident that India would finish among the top 20 countries in the Paralympics.
The minister also highlighted the role of parents and their childhood coaches in shaping their careers, saying that they deserve the credit for putting the athletes on the right track and backing them to achieve great heights at international level.
The flag bearer Sumit Antil and athletics chief coach Satyanarayan were felicitated at the occasion. An inspirational song was also released for the Paralympics contingent during the ceremony.
