Sumit Antil and Devendra Jhajharia Encourage Athletes to Seize Opportunities at Khelo India Para Games for Olympic Aspirations
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Synopsis
Sumit Antil and Devendra Jhajharia welcomed over 1300 athletes to the Khelo India Para Games in New Delhi. The event features six disciplines, aimed at enhancing the skills of both emerging and experienced athletes as they prepare for future Paralympic competitions.
Key Takeaways
- Sumit Antil and Devendra Jhajharia support athletes at Khelo India Para Games.
- Over 1300 athletes are participating in the event.
- Khelo India Para Games are crucial for Olympic aspirations.
- Facilities meet international standards for athlete training.
- Jagdish Parmar, a star from the first edition, returns to compete.
New Delhi, March 19 (NationPress) Two of India's most renowned Paralympians – Sumit Antil and Devendra Jhajharia – greeted over 1300 athletes at the Khelo India Para Games, which kicks off its second edition in the Capital on Thursday.
The events will unfold across three venues – Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium, IG Stadium, and the Dr Karni Singh Shooting Range – until March 27.
KIPG 2025 will feature six disciplines: para athletics, para archery, para powerlifting, para badminton, para table tennis, and para shooting. The opening ceremony is set to take place at the Indira Gandhi Indoor Stadium on Thursday evening, with the presence of over 1300 athletes, 350 support staff, and 150 volunteers.
Both Jhajharia and Antil are international icons. Jhajharia has clinched two Paralympic golds in javelin, a feat later matched by Antil. They both unanimously agree that the Khelo India Para Games have introduced a significant boost to India's sporting landscape.
“I am thrilled to see the return of the Khelo India Para Games. I wish all the emerging athletes the very best. It's a fantastic platform for both new and seasoned athletes to compete and refine their skills,” Antil shared with SAI Media.
Jhajharia, who currently leads the Paralympic Committee of India, elaborated on how Khelo India Para Games 2025 will influence Indian athletes' performances at the 2028 Los Angeles Paralympics. India secured a record 29 medals (nine golds) at the 2024 Paris Games.
“The facilities provided to these athletes meet international standards. Last year, around 7-8 medals were won in the Paralympics in Paris by athletes who participated in Khelo India as well. We are confident that those competing in this tournament will win more international medals and make the nation proud,” Jhajharia stated.
The inaugural Khelo India Para Games took place in December 2023. At least 25 athletes from the first edition were part of India's 84-member contingent for the 2024 Paralympics in Paris.
The first KIPG catapulted Jagdish Parmar into the limelight. The visually impaired long jumper from Gujarat, who achieved a remarkable 4.59-meter jump to win gold in the T11-13 category, is set to return to KIPG 2025.
“It was wonderful to be acknowledged. A friend shared the video with me, and it deeply touched me. Being recognized among so many athletes for my achievements has motivated me to excel even more. I am eagerly looking forward to this year's tournament, confident that I will perform even better,” Parmar expressed.
