Powerlifting at the 2024 Paralympics: India’s Schedule and Medal Prospects
As the Paris 2024 Paralympics gears up, the Indian para-powerlifting team is ready to showcase their strength on the global stage. With four determined athletes representing the nation, hopes are high for breaking a 20-year medal drought.
The competition, scheduled from September 4 to 8 at the Porte de La Chapelle Arena, features 20 events across men’s and women’s categories. Here’s everything you need to know about the Indian squad’s schedule and their chances at the Games.
Paralympics Indian Squad: Aiming for Glory
India has participated in para-powerlifting since 1996, but it’s been two decades since the nation last celebrated a medal in this sport. The only Indian to reach the podium so far is Rajinder Singh Rahelu, who clinched a bronze in the Men’s 56 kg category at the 2004 Athens Paralympics.
Since then, the wait for another medal has continued. However, 2024 brings renewed optimism, as the Indian contingent arrives in Paris with a mix of experience and ambition.
Parmjeet Kumar: Competing in the Men’s up to 49 kg category, Parmjeet Kumar is one of India’s brightest prospects. His silver medal at the 2024 Para Powerlifting World Cup in Egypt has boosted his confidence ahead of his Summer Games debut. With a bronze from the 2018 Para Asian Games under his belt, Parmjeet is looking to translate his recent success into a historic Paralympic medal.
Ashok Kumar: Another strong medal contender, Ashok Kumar will compete in the Men’s up to 65 kg category. Like Parmjeet, Ashok has a World Cup silver medal to his name and will be aiming for a podium finish in Paris. His journey has been marked by consistent performances, and the Paralympics present the perfect stage for him to shine.
Sakina Khatun: Competing in the Women’s up to 45 kg category, Sakina Khatun has been a trailblazer in Indian para-powerlifting. She came close to the podium at the Tokyo 2020 Paralympics, finishing fifth with a lift of 93 kg. Sakina is determined to better her performance this time and finally claim a Paralympic medal.
Kasthuri Rajamani: Rounding out the Indian squad, Kasthuri Rajamani will compete in the Women’s up to 67 kg category. While she faces tough competition, Kasthuri is focused on delivering a personal best and potentially securing a place on the podium.
Powerlifting Paralympics 2024 Schedule: When to Watch
Here’s when you can catch India’s para-powerlifters in action at the Paris 2024 Paralympics (all times in IST):
- September 4, 2024
- Men’s up to 49 kg Final: Parmjeet Kumar, 3:30 PM
- September 5, 2024
- Women’s up to 45 kg Final: Sakina Khatun, 8:30 PM
- Men’s up to 65 kg Final: Ashok Kumar, 10:05 PM
- September 6, 2024
- Women’s up to 67 kg Final: Kasthuri Rajamani, 8:30 PM
Breaking the Drought: Can India Win?
India’s para-powerlifters enter the 2024 Paralympics with both pressure and promise. After two decades of near misses, there is a palpable sense of determination within the squad.
Parmjeet Kumar and Ashok Kumar have shown they can compete with the best, while Sakina Khatun and Kasthuri Rajamani are aiming to surprise the field with their performances.
This year, the combination of experience, preparation, and the hunger to succeed could finally see India return to the podium. The entire nation will be watching closely as these athletes lift not just weights, but the hopes of millions back home.
As the competition unfolds in Paris, one thing is clear: India’s para-powerlifters are here to make their mark.
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