Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya, Union Minister for Youth Affairs & Sports and Labour & Employment, extended his best wishes to the Indian contingent participating in the Paris Paralympics 2024 during the send-off ceremony organised in New Delhi on August 16, 2024. Union Minister of State for Youth Affairs & Sports, Raksha Khadse was also present on the occasion, informed Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports, PIB.
Praising the athletes, Dr. Mandaviya stated, “Our para-athletes possess a remarkable ability to overcome obstacles and turn challenges into opportunities. Para-athletes embody the spirit of India and serve as a profound source of inspiration for our 1.4 billion citizens.”
Dr. Mandaviya assured the athletes of the government’s unwavering commitment to equip them with necessary resources and support to excel at the highest levels of competition. He highlighted the success of the Khelo India initiative, which has fostered the development of numerous athletes, as well as the targeted support extended to 50 para-athletes through the Target Olympic Podium Scheme (TOPS).
This Paralympics, India is sending the “largest-ever contingent of 84 para-athletes who will be participating in 12 games,” he noted. The athletes will compete in 12 sports including archery, athletics, badminton, canoeing, cycling, blind judo, powerlifting, rowing, shooting, swimming, table tennis, and taekwondo.
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On the occasion, Dr. Mandaviya also extended gratitude and appreciation to families and coaches of the athletes for their invaluable support, “I want to extend my wishes to your families and coaches who have stood by you from the beginning of your journey.”
Union Minister also launched a special anthem “Macha Dhoom,” to rally the athletes and ignite the spirit of competition.
Raksha Khadse, Union Minister of State for Youth Affairs & Sports, praised the athletes for their remarkable dedication and determination, “Our athletes have demonstrated incredible resilience, and their journey is a true inspiration. We are immensely proud of them.”
Devendra Jhajharia, President of the Paralympic Committee of India, expressed gratitude for the support received from the government in view of the upcoming Paralympics. He highlighted the pride in athletes preparing to represent India in Paris, showcasing resilience and determination.
