India’s medal tally at the Paris Paralympics 2024 advanced closer to the significant milestone of 25 medals on September 4, as athletes from the country delivered outstanding performances across multiple events. This impressive showing underscored India’s growing prowess in the Paralympic arena and highlighted the dedication and skill of its athletes.
The day’s events were headlined by Harvinder Singh, who made history by becoming the first Indian archer to win a gold medal at the Paralympics. Harvinder’s remarkable achievement came in the Men's Individual Recurve Open final, where he faced off against Poland’s Lukasz Ciszek. In a display of precision and composure, Harvinder secured a commanding 6-0 victory. His performance was characterized by a flawless first set, where he scored 9, 10, and 9, compared to Ciszek’s 9, 7, and 8. The second set saw both competitors matching each other with scores of 9, but Harvinder’s final arrow—a perfect 10—gave him a 4-0 lead. In the final set, Harvinder’s additional scores of two 10s and a 9 ensured his triumph, leaving Ciszek with scores of a 7 and two 9s. This gold medal not only added to Harvinder’s Paralympic achievements but also elevated India’s standing in archery, following earlier bronze medals won by Rakesh Kumar and Sheetal Devi in the Mixed Team Compound Open event.
Sachin Khilari also made headlines by earning a silver medal in the men’s shot put F46 event. Competing at Stade de France, Khilari’s throw of 16.32 meters was notable as it represented the best performance by an Asian in the men’s F46 category. Although he finished behind Canada’s Greg Stewart, Khilari’s consistency across all six throws, with his best attempt coming on his second try, underscored his exceptional skill and training. His silver medal marked India’s 11th medal in para-athletics at the Paris Paralympics, further solidifying the track and field team’s status as a key contributor to India’s overall medal tally.
In the Men’s Club Throw - F51 Final, Dharambir and Pranav Soorma concluded the day with remarkable achievements. Dharambir captured the gold medal with a top throw of 34.92 meters, while Pranav clinched the silver with a throw of 34.59 meters. This one-two finish in the club throw event highlighted India’s dominance in field events and contributed significantly to the nation’s medal count.
At the close of Day 7, India’s total medal tally stands at 24, comprising five gold, nine silver, and ten bronze medals. This impressive haul positions India at 13th in the overall medal standings, reflecting the nation’s strong performance across a range of Paralympic sports. The ongoing success of Indian athletes at the Paris Paralympics is a testament to their hard work, resilience, and growing support for para-sports in the country. The achievements on September 4 not only celebrate individual victories but also inspire a sense of national pride and highlight the remarkable journey of India’s Paralympic athletes.
