How India Secured its First-Ever World Para Athletics Championships
India is celebrating a landmark moment in its sporting history as it hosts the World Para Athletics Championships for the first time, a culmination of strategic diplomacy, significant infrastructure investment, and a clear vision for the nation's future as a global sporting hub. The event, which kicked off in New Delhi, marks a pivotal step in the country’s journey to the forefront of international para-sports.
The Strategic Push That Sealed the Deal
The successful bid to host the championships was the result of a concerted, multi-year effort by the Paralympic Committee of India (PCI). According to PCI President Devendra Jhajharia, a crucial turning point came during meetings with the World Paralympic body on the sidelines of the Paris Paralympics. The Indian delegation successfully convinced the global governing body of India's readiness, highlighting the massive strides the country has made in promoting and providing visibility for para-sports.
The groundwork had been laid even earlier. In 2023, the PCI invited Paul Fitzgerald, the head of the world para committee, to witness the inaugural Khelo India Para Games in New Delhi. Impressed by the organization and the progress India had made, Fitzgerald opened the door to the possibility of hosting a world-scale event, setting in motion the final, successful push.
Investing in World-Class, Accessible Infrastructure
Securing the hosting rights was followed by a comprehensive overhaul of the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium to meet stringent international standards. The most significant upgrade was the installation of a state-of-the-art Mondo Track. While India already had an indoor Mondo facility in Bhubaneswar, this project, costing nearly ₹30 crore, marks the first time the high-performance surface has been installed in a major outdoor stadium in the country.
Beyond the track, the entire venue was revamped to be fully para-athlete-friendly. Roads within the campus were repaired, and new lifts, ramps, and disabled-friendly washrooms were installed to ensure athletes have seamless and dignified access to all facilities. These upgrades represent a lasting legacy for para-sports in the country.
Building a Foundation for a Bigger Dream
Hosting the World Para Athletics Championships is a significant achievement in itself, but it is also a critical component of a much larger national ambition. Successfully staging a major international tournament like this is essential for building India’s reputation as a capable and reliable host nation.
This event is seen as a vital stepping stone in India’s long-term goal of launching a successful bid for the 2036 Olympic and Paralympic Games. Each flawlessly executed event strengthens the country's credentials and demonstrates its commitment to becoming a premier destination for global sporting competitions. As India fields its largest-ever contingent of 73 athletes, the focus is not just on winning medals, but on delivering a world-class experience that showcases the nation's organizational prowess to the world.
Key Athletes in the Spotlight
Indian Contenders to Watch:
• Sumit Antil (Javelin): The undisputed star of Indian para-javelin, Antil is a two-time Paralympic gold medallist and a firm favourite to dominate in New Delhi.
• Praveen Kumar (High Jump): Having upgraded his Tokyo silver to a Paralympic gold in Paris, Kumar has shown remarkable consistency and is a top contender.
• Preethi Pal (Sprints): A trailblazer for Indian women's track and field, Pal made history in Paris by winning two Paralympic medals at a single Games.
• Simran Sharma (Sprints): A visually impaired sprinter who is the reigning World Champion from Kobe, Sharma brings incredible form and experience to the track.
• Mahendra Gurjar (Javelin/Long Jump): A rising star who set a new world record in javelin during his debut season, Gurjar is an exciting wildcard for India.
International Stars to Watch:
• Catherine Debrunner (Switzerland): The undisputed queen of wheelchair racing, Debrunner arrives in Delhi after sweeping an incredible five gold medals at the Paris Paralympics.
• Ezra Frech (USA): At just 19, the versatile American is already a double Paralympic champion and a major force in high jump, long jump, and sprints.
• Petrucio Ferreira (Brazil): Known as the world's fastest Paralympian, the Brazilian sprinter is a multiple world and Paralympic champion and a major draw on the track.
Tags: Athletics Para Athletics
