Paralympics 2024: Indian Paralympians can deliver big medals in Paris and Chateauroux

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The significance of the Paris Paralympics for Indian sport is massive. After the lows of the Paris Olympics, where India could win only six medals, all eyes are now on 84 Indian athletes who will be competing in a gamut of disciplines at the Paralympics in Paris and distant Chateauroux.

After Manu Bhaker played her role in India winning two medals in Chateauroux, plus a third medal from Swapnil Kushale, expectations are the Para shooters will again do well.

In Tokyo, a certain Avani Lekhara caught the imagination of one and all with her prowess in rifle shooting. Her story of overcoming personal tragedy following a car accident and then taking up shooting has served as an inspiration. And this time, 10 Para shooters will gun for glory in Chateauroux, a venue which has been a happy hunting ground for India.

The sheer presence of 84 athletes from India at the Paralympics is huge. Compare this with India's participation in the previous editions, India would struggle to send even 10 competitors. If there was a turning point, then one man can take credit for it -- Devendra Jhajharia.

As a multiple Para medallist in javelin, he defined longevity and has now taken on the mantle of being a leader. As President of the Paralympic Committee of India (PCI), he has taken it upon himself to ensure that Indian athletes are in good space and perform.

He has promised more than 25 medals, which will be massive. At the same time, even if Indian para-athletes fall short of the target, expectations are, that they will do better than Tokyo. The tally was 19 in 2021 when the Paralympics were held during a lockdown due to the Covid pandemic.

The statements from Jhajharia and another icon, Deepa Malik, are in sync with the philosophy Indian Para athletes are fearless. There are a number of stories which have already generated interest, including archer Sheetal Devi and high jumper Mariyappan Thangavelu, who is aiming for a third medal. He won gold in Rio 2016, and silver in Tokyo and has again qualified. This kind of passion is amazing for a Para athlete who turns disability into ability.

These are just two instances of Indian athletes who can deliver medals and be inspiring in Paris. Reality is, there are many more among the 84 who will be fearless when they take to the field of play after the opening ceremony, or champions parade, on August 28.

By all accounts, the conditions are friendly for the Indian athletes to showcase their talent in the Paralympics. None of these competitors want sympathy from the public, they only want people to watch and cheer for them.

For those with various categories of disability and also those who are wheelchair bound, taking up sport is in itself a massive success story. These athletes do not hesitate to give their best and are more than eager to challenge the field.

And if people think they make the cut for the Paralympics easily, no, it's the opposite. As a nation, India may still not be friendly for people with disability in daily walks of life. As far as sport is concerned, massive efforts have gone in from the government agencies and the NGOs.

In disciplines like athletics, shooting and badminton, India's Para athletes are strong. Then again, these athletes have taken great care not to be involved in anything which can cause them anguish, like following the anti-doping protocols. After all, Pramod Bhagat being slapped with a ban a fortnight back for missing dope tests has not been taken lightly.

In Europe, the Americas and even Asia, the growth of para-sport has been very big. The emphasis is on allowing these athletes to compete without any inhibition. And the Indians also fall into this category, as India's performance in Tokyo was an eye-opener.

At the same time, fans who watch Para sports should not compare Indian able-bodied athletes and para-athletes. Both are different and to expect similarity in medal count will be unreasonable.

From the Indian government side, they have pumped crores of rupees into training, coaching and national camps plus the exposure tours. All this is a sign, that India is serious about winning medals in the Paralympics. Be sure, the hype will increase in the coming days and for sheer performance against all odds, the Indians deserve applause.