New Delhi, Sep 16 (NationPress) The President of the Paralympic Committee of India (PCI) and two-time Paralympic gold medalist Devendra Jhajharia is optimistic that the Indian team will secure over 20 medals at the upcoming World Para Athletics Championships.

India is preparing to host its largest para-sporting event, the World Para Athletics Championships, which will take place from September 27 to October 5 at the renowned Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium. A record-breaking 73-member Indian contingent is ready to take on this challenge.

“Our squad of 73 athletes marks the largest Indian contingent ever at a World Para Athletics Championships, showcasing the advancement and depth of para-sport in our nation. Previously in Kobe, India secured 17 medals. With a stronger team this time, I firmly believe we will exceed 20 medals and achieve historic success on our home turf,” Jhajharia stated.

“Each athlete in this team, whether a newcomer or a seasoned player, has faced significant challenges to reach this point. They embody the aspirations of a new generation, and I am confident their performances will encourage many more across the nation to pursue sports and dream without limits,” he added.

Regarding the geographical diversity of the Indian team and the scale of the event, PCI's president said, “This will be the most significant para-sport event ever hosted in India, with confirmed participation from 104 countries and over 2,200 para-athletes and support staff.”

“In line with this magnitude, the Indian contingent stands out as one of the most remarkable in World Championships history. While Haryana has traditionally been a stronghold, we now also have athletes from Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, and other states, reflecting our nation’s true diversity.”

The Indian team consists of a mix of experienced athletes and promising newcomers. Led by Sumit Antil, a star javelin thrower and two-time Paralympic gold medalist, the team includes notable athletes such as Praveen Kumar, Nishad Kumar, Simran Sharma, Preeti Pal, Navdeep, Dharambir Nain, and Pranav Soorma.

Consistent performers at both national and international events, including Rinku Hooda, who aims to convert his 2023 Paris World Championships silver into gold, also bolster the squad. Ekta Bhyan will defend her gold in the Club Throw F51 event, underscoring India’s potential for medals.

This year, a historic 35 athletes will make their World Championships debut for India. Among them, Mahendra Gurjar has already gained attention by setting a world record with a 61.17m throw in the men’s F42 javelin at the Nottwil Grand Prix in Switzerland earlier this year. These selections illustrate not only the depth of talent but also the determination and growing prominence of Indian para-athletes on the world stage.

The 2025 World Para Athletics Championships is a significant event, marking the first time India will host this prestigious tournament. The expanded competition schedule includes 186 medal events, which is 15 more than the last edition in Kobe, encompassing 101 for men, 84 for women, and one mixed event.

The Championships are poised to be a landmark moment for Indian sports, celebrating the resilience, skill, and spirit of the nation’s para-athletes while encouraging the next generation to aim high. Prasar Bharati has been appointed the Official Broadcast Partner, bringing live coverage of the Championships to viewers across the country.