India’s performance at the 2018 Asian Para Games in Jakarta, Indonesia was an extraordinary achievement, marking a significant improvement in the country’s para-sports history. Here’s a more detailed look at the highlights and the significance of India’s success:

• Total Medals Won: 72 (15 Golds, 24 Silvers, and 33 Bronzes)
• Rank: 9th overall in the medal tally, a notable position that underscored India’s growing strength in para-sports.
• Number of Events: Indian athletes competed in a wide range of events, showcasing their versatility and talent across disciplines.

• Improved Performance: India’s total medal tally at the 2018 Games was more than double the number of medals won in the 2014 Asian Para Games, where India had won only 33 medals (3 golds, 14 silvers, and 16 bronzes).
• Highest Medal Tally: With 72 medals, this marked India’s best-ever performance at the Asian Para Games, highlighting the country’s significant strides in fostering para-athletics.

1. Mariyappan Thangavelu, the Rio 2016 Paralympic gold medalist in high jump, clinched gold in his event, solidifying his place as one of India’s most successful para-athletes.
2. Varun Bhati, a prominent para-athlete, added to India’s medal tally by winning silver in high jump, alongside his compatriot Thangavelu.
3. Pramod Bhagat won gold in men’s SL3 badminton, making a significant mark in para-badminton, a sport that has seen rapid growth in India.
4. Manasi Joshi, another prominent para-badminton player, won silver in the women’s singles event, showcasing India’s dominance in the sport.
5. India had an excellent showing in para-powerlifting, with athletes like Sachin Chaudhary and Gulzeb Kaur bringing home medals. These performances highlighted India’s strength in para-lifting events.
6. Vinod Kumar secured gold in men’s powerlifting, further showcasing the improvement of Indian para-athletes in strength-based disciplines.
7. Suyash Jadhav claimed silver in swimming, continuing India’s success in the water sports category, where the country has produced strong para-athletes over the years.
8. India performed exceptionally well in para-table tennis, with athletes like Bhavina Patel bringing home gold in women’s events. The country’s growing prowess in this sport was clearly evident at the Games.
9. The Indian para-archery team contributed medals, with Jayanti Behera and Harvinder Singh securing valuable bronze in their events, showcasing India’s diverse talents in para-sports.
10. Sandeep Kumar secured gold in para-cycling, underlining the increasing success of Indian athletes in this category.
11. His achievement was a part of the larger success in para-cycling, with India now becoming a rising force in this field.

• Remarkable Growth: The performance of Indian para-athletes in 2018 reflects the tremendous progress made in the country’s para-sports ecosystem over the last few years, with increasing recognition and support for athletes with disabilities.
• Government Support: The growth in India’s para-athletics success can be attributed to enhanced governmental support, training facilities, and recognition of the athletes’ efforts. Initiatives such as the Para-Sports Promotion Scheme have helped build a stronger platform for these athletes.
• Improved Facilities and Training: More training programs, better equipment, and exposure to international competitions have allowed para-athletes to enhance their skills and compete at the highest level.
• Inspiration for Others: The extraordinary success of Indian para-athletes has provided inspiration to many others with disabilities, demonstrating that challenges can be overcome with hard work, dedication, and resilience.

India’s historic performance at the 2018 Asian Para Games was a remarkable achievement and a testament to the rising strength of para-sports in the country. The 72 medals, including 15 golds, highlighted India’s growing prominence in para-athletics, with the achievements of athletes like Mariyappan Thangavelu, Pramod Bhagat, and Suyash Jadhav standing out. The performance also marked a significant turning point in the development of para-sports in India, and the country’s para-athletes now stand as an inspiration for millions of others.