India Creates History at World Para Athletics Championships 2025 — Records Best-Ever Medal Haul with 18 Medals
In a historic achievement, India delivered its best-ever performance at the World Para Athletics Championships 2025, finishing with an impressive tally of 18 medals — including 6 gold, 7 silver, and 5 bronze. The stellar show underlined the nation’s growing strength in para sports and its commitment to inclusivity in athletics.
Held in Kobe, Japan, the global event witnessed some of India’s finest para-athletes rise to the occasion, shattering records and personal barriers alike. The performance also marked a significant improvement from India’s previous best of 10 medals, achieved at the 2023 edition of the championships.
Golden Moments for India
Leading the charge were Sumit Antil (F64 Javelin Throw) and Mariyappan Thangavelu (T42 High Jump), both of whom clinched gold with dominating performances. Antil once again demonstrated why he is regarded as one of the finest para javelin throwers in the world, setting a new championship record with his final throw.
In the women’s section, Ekta Bhyan (Club Throw F51) and Parul Parmar (T36 Sprint) also brought glory to the nation with golden finishes, inspiring a new generation of para-athletes across the country.
Silver and Bronze Success
India’s silver medalists included consistent performers like Yogesh Kathuniya (Discus Throw F56) and Pranav Soorma (Club Throw F51), who narrowly missed gold but added valuable points to India’s medal tally. The bronze medal winners showcased remarkable grit, ensuring India stayed among the top-performing nations in the championship.
A Statement of Progress and Inclusion
The 18-medal haul is not just a sporting triumph but also a testament to the resilience of India’s para-athletes, the guidance of their coaches, and the support of organizations like the Paralympic Committee of India (PCI) and the Sports Authority of India (SAI).
This landmark performance cements India’s reputation as a rising powerhouse in global para-athletics and sets a strong precedent ahead of the Paris 2025 Paralympic Games.
Coach’s Corner: “Our athletes have proven that nothing is impossible when preparation meets opportunity. This is India’s time in para sports,” said Chief Coach Satyanarayana, lauding the team’s collective effort.
Key Highlights
Total Medals: 18 (6 Gold, 7 Silver, 5 Bronze)
Event Venue: Kobe, Japan
Top Performers: Sumit Antil, Mariyappan Thangavelu, Ekta Bhyan, Yogesh Kathuniya
India’s Rank: Among top 5 nations
India’s phenomenal showing at the World Para Athletics Championships 2025 will be remembered as a defining chapter in the nation’s sporting history — a celebration of ability, perseverance, and pride.
