The Indian Paralympic contingent was given a grand farewell on Friday (August 16), ahead of the Paris Games scheduled to be held from August 28 to September 8. A grand ceremony was organised for the Indian contingent by the Paralympic Committee of India (PCI) and the Sports Authority of India (SAI). The Indian contingent comprises: 84 athletes in 12 sportsThere will be several sports including archery, athletics, badminton, canoeing, cycling, blind judo, powerlifting, rowing, shooting, swimming, table tennis and taekwondo. It will also be a special moment for India as it will host the largest contingent from the country of 84 athletes, more than the 54 athletes competing in Tokyo.

“Our para-athletes have an extraordinary ability to overcome obstacles and turn challenges into opportunities. They have shown extraordinary determination and perseverance in their preparation for the Paris 2024 Paralympic Games,” Sports Minister Mansukh Mandaviya said in a statement. Bhagyashree Jadhav and Sumit Antil He has been named India's flag bearer for the 2024 Paris Paralympic Games, leading the national contingent of 84 athletes.

Indian athletes prepare for 2024 Paralympics

“The Khelo India initiative has benefited many athletes, many of whom will be participating in the Paris Paralympic Games. The government is committed to providing the necessary resources and support to enable them to reach the highest level.”

He said: “As he embarks on this important journey, we are united in his support and are confident that he will bring honour to our country. We wish him the best in his efforts to achieve excellence on the world stage.

Can para-athletes improve on their previous total of 19 medals?

India won 19 medals at the Tokyo Paralympics and PCI President Devendra Jhajharia is hopeful that his country's athletes will perform well this time too.

Jhajharia said, “We are extremely proud of our athletes, who have trained with unwavering dedication and passion. They embody the spirit of resilience and determination as they prepare to represent India on the world’s biggest stage in Paris.”

“His journey to the Paralympics is a testament to his hard work and we are sure he will make the country proud. We wish him the best and are sure he will inspire millions across the country with his performance.