Making history in the pool, Kanchanmala Pande became the first Indian to win gold at the World Para Swimming Championships, securing the top spot in the 200m individual medley (S-11 category). The event was held in Berlin, Germany, and her victory on 8 December 2017 was a momentous achievement for Indian para-sports.
Competing in the S-11 category—for visually impaired swimmers—Kanchanmala displayed exceptional skill, endurance, and determination to emerge victorious on the global stage. Her win not only highlighted her personal resilience but also marked a turning point for para swimming in India.
Kanchanmala’s feat was widely celebrated and served as an inspiration to many aspiring athletes, proving that challenges can be turned into triumphs with dedication and grit.