India is hosting the 12th World Para Athletics Championships at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium in New Delhi from September 27 to October 5, 2025. This marks the first time the prestigious international event is being held in the country, bringing together over 1,000 athletes from more than 100 nations to compete in 186 medal events. The championship reflects India’s growing commitment to inclusive sports and para-athletics development.
On the opening day, the Indian contingent delivered an impressive performance, winning three medals, including a gold. Shailesh Kumar clinched gold in the men’s high jump T63 category, setting the tone for the competition. Deepthi Jeevanji secured silver in the women’s 400 meters T20 event, while Varun Singh Bhati earned bronze in the same high jump classification. These victories were celebrated as a strong start, igniting hopes of a historic medal haul for the host nation.
However, the momentum slowed in the following days. On September 28 and 29, India’s medal tally saw fewer additions despite competitive performances. Several athletes reached finals but narrowly missed podium finishes, underscoring the fierce level of competition. Analysts suggest that while the opening day showcased India’s potential, sustaining consistency will be crucial in securing a high overall medal count.
The championships not only highlight sporting excellence but also aim to inspire societal change by promoting inclusivity and awareness for differently-abled athletes. Organizers have emphasized that hosting such a large-scale event demonstrates India’s ability to deliver world-class sporting events and strengthens its position in global para-athletics.
With several events still underway, expectations remain high. The Indian team, buoyed by the early successes, continues to focus on delivering strong performances in upcoming days. Officials and fans alike are hopeful that the home advantage will propel India to one of its best-ever finishes in World Para Athletics history.
The 12th World Para Athletics Championships is poised to be a milestone in India’s sporting journey, combining high-level competition with a powerful message of empowerment and inclusivity.
