India’s Daughters Shine in Paris Paralympics

India made history at the Paris Paralympics, and the power behind it? The daughters of the nation. After winning 29 medals, the Indian Paralympic team returned home with their heads held high, and women played a massive role in that success.

Women Leading the Charge at Paris Paralympics

At the Paris Paralympics, women were unstoppable. In fact, every fourth medal was won by a female athlete. Out of 1,636 total medals, women athletes secured 709. That’s 41.8%!

India’s performance is particularly inspiring. The number of medals won by Indian women has tripled compared to the Tokyo Paralympics. Women athletes from China and Britain also led the way, with over half of their countries’ medals going to female competitors. China won 220 medals in total, with 131 claimed by women. Britain, similarly, saw 52.4% of their 124 medals won by women.

Women didn’t just win medals — they dominated. Of the 229 gold medals awarded in Paris, 54.1% went to women from the top five countries.

India’s Women Make History

For India, every third medal came from a woman. Of the 29 medals, 10 were won by female athletes — an impressive 34.4%. India sent 32 women out of a team of 84 athletes, making it the highest female representation in Indian Paralympic history. Seven of the 10 medal-winning women were competing in the Paralympics for the first time. Athletes like Tulsimati, Sheetal Devi, and Manisha Ramdas made their debut on this global stage and brought home medals.

In Tokyo, Indian women won just 15.7% of the country’s total medals. This time, the daughters of India raised that number to 34.4%, bringing home one gold, one silver, and eight bronze medals.

Eyes on Los Angeles 2028

Celebrations continued as Sports Minister Mansukh Mandaviya honored the medal-winning athletes at a grand ceremony. He promised full support and resources for the athletes as they prepare for the 2028 Paralympics in Los Angeles.

Mandaviya highlighted India’s growing strength in the Paralympics. From just four medals in 2016, India won 19 in Tokyo and 29 in Paris. The nation finished 18th overall this time, a major leap forward. “This is just the beginning,” he told the athletes. “Start preparing for the next games in Los Angeles and beyond.”

Devendra Jhajharia, President of the Indian Paralympic Committee, praised the athletes, coaches, and everyone who contributed to India’s rise as a Paralympic powerhouse.

Global Success for Women

The Paris Paralympics were a shining moment for female athletes worldwide. Women from 51 countries won gold medals, with female athletes from 68 countries earning at least one medal. Some countries, like Singapore, Ecuador, Ireland, Namibia, Peru, and Cyprus, saw only their women win medals.

China and Britain’s Women Dominate

China’s women continued their dominance, winning 131 out of the country’s 220 medals — that’s nearly 60%. Of China’s 94 gold medals, 54 went to women. Britain saw a similar rise, with 65 out of 124 medals claimed by female athletes. Women’s participation and success have been key drivers for both nations.

India’s daughters are right there with them, leading the charge toward a brighter, more inclusive future in sports. Their journey is only beginning.

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