The inaugural edition of the Khelo India Para Games (KIPG) came to a close in New Delhi, with Haryana emerging as the champions. Haryana secured a total of 105 medals, including 40 gold, 39 silver, and 26 bronze. The event, which started on December 10, saw the participation of approximately 1,450 para-athletes from all over the country.
Uttar Pradesh secured the second position by winning a total of 62 medals, which consisted of 25 gold, 23 silver, and 14 bronze. Tamil Nadu, on the other hand, claimed the third spot with 20 gold, eight silver, and 14 bronze medals. It is worth mentioning that athletes from 32 states and Union Territories actively participated in the Games.
The Games showcased para-athletes who had recently achieved success at the Asian Para Games in Hangzhou, China. Notable individuals such as Sheetal Devi, an armless archer, Yogesh Kathuniya, a discus thrower, and Bhavina Patel, a table tennis star, along with Parul Parmar and Nishad Kumar, among others, delivered outstanding performances. Additionally, emerging talents who overcame physical limitations were also impressed by securing podium finishes.
Rajesh T from Tamil Nadu, Sandeep Dangi from Haryana, Tulika Jadhao from Maharashtra, and Ashmita from Assam have all displayed remarkable perseverance and determination.
In his address at the closing ceremony, Anurag Thakur, the Union Sports and Youth Affairs Minister, hailed the Khelo India Para Games as a celebration of human passion and spirit. He said that the games mark a historic chapter in India’s sports history, where the focus is on participation rather than just winning. Mr Thakur expressed his gratitude to all the para-athletes, coaches, support staff, and various stakeholders involved in making this edition truly memorable.
Former Indian Cricketer Ajay Jadeja presents medals to the podium finishers of CP football at the #KheloIndiaParaGames and expresses his support for the para-athletes.
Former India cricketer Ajay Jadeja gave away medals to the CP football podium finishers at the #KheloIndiaParaGames and came out in support of the para athletes. #Praise4Para#KheloIndia pic.twitter.com/xImd2XHasi— Khelo India (@kheloindia) December 17, 2023
Other sports icons such as Mary Kom, Harbhajan Singh, Anju Bobby George, Anjum Moudgil, Manu Bhaker, Viren Rasquinha, and Ajay Jadeja, along with many others, graced the victory ceremonies to acknowledge the remarkable achievements of the para-athletes. They also commended the Government of India and the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports for incorporating para games into their prestigious Khelo India events.
Photo: X/KheloIndia
(With Input from agencies)
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