Devendra Jhajharia Confident in Indian Athletes Ahead of Paris Paralympics

Devendra Jhajharia, President of the Paralympic Committee of India, expresses confidence in India's Paralympic team. With a strong contingent supported by CSR sponsorships, Jhajharia predicts over 25 medals at the Paris Paralympics, crediting PM Modi for boosting para-athlete recognition and support.

Devendra Jhajharia, President of the Paralympic Committee of India (PCI) and a decorated Paralympian, declared his faith in the Indian athletes gearing up for the forthcoming Paris Paralympics. With a career spanning over two decades in Paralympic sports, Jhajharia's optimistic outlook is grounded in his intimate familiarity with the athletes and their capabilities.

"I have been a part of the Paralympics for over 20 years now. I know every athlete personally. I know their game and their performance," Jhajharia emphasized, shedding light on his deep connection with the Indian para-sports community. He detailed that 50 athletes would participate under the Target Olympic Podium Scheme (TOPS), supplemented by 16 athletes from India's inaugural para-games.

"50 athletes are going for the Paralympics as part of the TOPS scheme. 16 players of our first para-games are also going," he added. "We have helped many athletes through CSR sponsorship," he remarked.

Jhajharia highlighted that corporate social responsibility (CSR) sponsorships have been crucial in backing these athletes. Acknowledging the athletes' rigorous efforts over the last three years, he expressed his confidence in their capacity to secure more than 25 medals, positioning India among the top 20 in the medal tally. "Seeing the hard work and training put in by our athletes over three years, I can say that we will win more than 25 medals, and India will be among the top 20 in the medal tally," Jhajharia asserted.

He underscored that the Paris Paralympics is perceived as a mission by the Indian team. "We have undertaken the Paris Paralympics as our mission," he stated.

Jhajharia praised the 84-member squad, affirming that each athlete holds the potential to clinch a medal. "Out of our 84-member team, all are equally capable of winning a medal," he commented.

Recalling his early experiences, Jhajharia recounted the absence of recognition and support at his first Paralympics in 2004 when he had to bear his expenses despite winning a medal. "Back when I went for my first Paralympics in 2004 and won a medal, nobody recognized me, there was no media at the airport to receive me. I spent my own money to fund my expenses," he revealed.

Emphasizing the significant improvement in the acknowledgment of para-athletes in India, Jhajharia credited Prime Minister Narendra Modi for enhancing the visibility and support for athletes with disabilities. "Now, PM Narendra Modi has given para-athletes a new identity," he noted, acknowledging the positive changes that have bolstered the athletes' morale.

As the Indian team prepares for the Paris Paralympics, Jhajharia's words of assurance and hope set high expectations for the nation's performance on the international stage.

(With inputs from agencies.)