Indian Paralympic Contingent Heads to Paris with Accessibility Boost from Svayam

Ahead of the Paris Paralympics 2024, the Paralympic Committee of India praised Svayam for providing accessibility support. Over 20 Indian athletes departed for Paris, bolstered by improved travel facilities and high expectations, aiming to surpass the record medal haul from Tokyo 2020.

Ahead of the Paris Paralympics 2024, the Paralympic Committee of India (PCI) president Devendra Jhajharia on Sunday praised the selection of Svayam as the accessibility partner for the contingent, addressing the 'pain' and challenges faced by differently-abled athletes. Over 20 Indian athletes departed for Paris from Delhi airport, filled with the expectations and support of a billion countrymen, as well as backing from both government and private partners, aiming to surpass the record haul of 19 medals achieved at the Tokyo 2020 Paralympics.

During a conversation with reporters, Jhajharia emphasized the importance of PCI's collaboration with Svayam to ensure ease of travel and dignity for players, particularly during local commutes to the airport and training facilities. "Svayam is a message in itself. The pain of differently-abled athletes has been understood. Work is being done on accessible transport. This is showing a new direction to the country, highlighting the needs of differently-abled athletes," Jhajharia stated.

Adding further, Jhajharia noted that proper accessibility is crucial for athletes, boosting their confidence and well-being. "Accessibility is important for athletes. They have to travel a lot. If they get accessibility, they feel more confident and better mentally," he added.

Svayam has donated special accessible vehicles designed to accommodate wheelchairs, allowing athletes to travel without having to move from their wheelchairs to board the vehicle. Among the notable para-athletes at the airport ready to depart were table tennis stars Bhavina Patel and Sonalben Patel, para-badminton players Manoj Sarkar, Manisha Ramdass, gold medallist Krishna Nagar, and para-athletes Sachin Sarjerao Khilari and Sakshi Kasana.

India celebrated a historic achievement at the 2020 Tokyo Paralympics, securing five gold, eight silver, and six bronze medals, marking a record total of 19 medals. (ANI)

(With inputs from agencies.)