Image Source: Paralympic.org
India is set to host the world’s largest single para sport event, the 2025 World Para Athletics Championships, from September 27 to October 5 at the iconic Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium (JLN Stadium) in New Delhi. With participation expected from more than 2,500 para athletes across 104 countries, the event marks a historic moment as India’s Prime Minister Narendra Modi lends his wholehearted support to the nation’s burgeoning para-sports vision.
Key Highlights: Groundbreaking Event at India’s Doorstep
The 12th edition of the World Para Athletics Championships represents the first time the prestigious international event has been staged in India, making it the fourth occurrence in Asia after Doha 2015, Dubai 2019, and Kobe 2024.
The championship will feature 186 medal events, including men’s, women’s, and mixed categories—a record 15 more than in the previous edition.
Newly installed Mondo tracks at the JLN Stadium and adjacent training venues were completed in early September, adhering to world-class standards and enhancing the athlete experience.
India plans to field its largest-ever contingent of around 100 athletes, bolstered by the country’s best performance at the last championships in Kobe, where it finished in the top six with 17 medals including six golds.
PM Modi’s Vision and Role in Para Sports
Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s backing symbolizes India’s commitment to elevating para-athletics and empowering persons with disabilities through sport.
Modi has been a vocal supporter of para athletes and inclusive sports policies, recognizing sports as a platform to break societal barriers and nurture talent across all abilities.
In official statements, the National Paralympic Committee of India (NPC India) credited Modi’s encouragement as pivotal to India’s rising stature on the global para sports stage and its aspirations to host the 2036 Olympics and Paralympics.
Global Scale and Participating Nations
Over 104 countries have confirmed participation, bringing together more than 2,500 athletes, coaches, and officials for what promises to be the largest international para sport event ever held in India.
Leading para athletics nations including China, Brazil, Great Britain, and the US are expected to compete, ensuring a high-caliber, fiercely contested championship.
The event is anticipated to heighten visibility for para sports worldwide and create a legacy of increased awareness and support for athletes with disabilities.
Infrastructure and Legacy Building
The JLN Stadium, with a capacity of approximately 60,000, underwent extensive renovations, including track replacement and accessibility upgrades, to meet international standards.
Auxiliary arrangements for accommodation, transport, and logistics have been calibrated to ensure smooth operations and comfort for all participants.
The championships are designed to inspire future generations and spur national investment in para-athletic infrastructure, coaching development, and grassroots disability sports.
Social Impact and Inclusion Drive
India’s population of more than 60 million persons with disabilities stands to benefit from the contest’s legacy, which aims to promote inclusivity and equitable sporting opportunities.
The event serves as a catalyst to challenge stereotypes, advocate for accessibility reforms, and foster empowerment through competitive excellence.
Widespread media coverage and community engagement initiatives promise to amplify stories of resilience and achievement, changing mindsets across the country.
Conclusion
With over a hundred nations and thousands of athletes converging in New Delhi, the 2025 World Para Athletics Championships represent a watershed moment for India. Backed by Prime Minister Modi’s vision, the event is poised not only to showcase sporting excellence but also to celebrate diversity, redefine societal narratives, and position India as a global leader in para sports development.
Sources: NDTV, World Para Athletics, Paralympic Committee of India
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