Rakshitha Raju: First Indian Female in Paralympic 1500m T-11

Rakshitha Raju from Chikkamagaluru, Karnataka, will be the first Indian female to compete in the Women's 1500m Running T-11 Category at the 2024 Paralympics. Her journey, marked by personal and professional triumphs, exemplifies her unparalleled resilience and commitment. The Paralympics will commence on August 28, 2024.

Rakshitha Raju, a visually impaired athlete hailing from Chikkamagaluru, Karnataka, has made history by being selected for the 2024 Paralympics. She will compete in the Women's 1500m Running T-11 Category, marking a significant milestone as the first Indian female athlete to do so. The Paralympic Committee of India (PCI) released a statement highlighting her unparalleled resilience and dedication.

Born with a visual impairment, Rakshitha faced significant challenges from a young age. Orphaned early, she was raised by her grandmother, who also struggles with speech and hearing impairments. Despite these obstacles, her passion for athletics was ignited during her time at the Ashakirana School for the Blind, guided by her physical education teacher.

Rakshitha's athletic career boasts numerous national and international accolades, including a gold medal in the Women's 1500m-T11 at the 2023 Hangzhou Asian Para Games. Her journey has earned praise from Prime Minister Narendra Modi and has paved the way for greater female participation in the Paralympics. The 2024 Paralympics, featuring India's largest contingent of 84 athletes, will run from August 28 to September 8.

(With inputs from agencies.)