Union Minister of Youth Affairs & Sports and Labour & Employment, Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya, today felicitated the Indian Para-Badminton contingent upon their return from the Paris 2024 Paralympic Games. India achieved its best-ever performance in Para-Badminton, securing an impressive tally of five medals, including 1 Gold, 2 Silver, and 2 Bronze.
Addressing the athletes in New Delhi, Dr. Mandaviya expressed immense pride in their accomplishments, stating, “You have made the entire nation proud with your outstanding performance. Your dedication and spirit have set a new benchmark for Indian sports.” He also extended encouragement to those who narrowly missed winning medals, emphasizing the value of experience gained and expressing confidence in their future success. “We haven’t lost medals; we have gained invaluable experience. In future Paralympics, our medal count will rise, and each of you will emerge as winners,” he said.
Dr. Mandaviya highlighted India’s ongoing improvement in international sporting events over the past decade, both in the Olympics and Paralympics, stating, “In the last 10 years, we have continuously improved our performance, proving our mettle on the global stage.”
The minister also reaffirmed the government’s commitment to supporting para-athletes through enhanced facilities, training, and opportunities, ensuring they continue to excel at the highest level. He assured the athletes of continued backing and encouraged them to aim for greater heights in future competitions.
The five medalists from the Paris Paralympics include Nitesh Kumar (Gold), Suhas LY (Silver), Thulasimathi Murugesan (Silver), Nithya Sre (Bronze), and Manisha Ramadass (Bronze). Their success contributed to India’s historic tally of 20 medals at the Paris 2024 Paralympic Games, surpassing the previous record of 19 medals at the Tokyo Paralympics.
The para-athletes expressed gratitude to the government, particularly for the Target Olympic Podium Scheme (TOPS), which they credited for providing essential resources and facilities. Under the scheme, a total of 19 foreign exposure trips were organized by the Government of India during the Paris Paralympics cycle, benefiting the 13 para shuttlers who participated in the games.
As India continues to rise on the international para-sports stage, the government’s sustained efforts to nurture and support its athletes are expected to drive further success in upcoming global competitions.
