Thu Sep 12 09:36:59 UTC 2024: ## Modi Honours Paralympians with Record-Breaking Medal Haul
**New Delhi, September 12** – Prime Minister Narendra Modi hosted India’s triumphant Paralympians at his residence today, showering praise and appreciation on the athletes for their historic performance at the Paris Games. The contingent, having secured a record 29 medals (7 gold, 9 silver, and 13 bronze), surpassed the previous best of 19 medals achieved in Tokyo three years ago.
The PM interacted with the medalists, sharing smiles and engaging in light-hearted banter. Notably, he sat down on the floor to receive a cap from javelin thrower Navdeep Singh, adding a personal touch to the occasion. In a touching gesture, armless para archer Sheetal Devi presented Modi with an autographed jersey, signed with her feet.
Among the athletes who were recognized were wheelchair-bound shooter Avani Lekhara, who won her second consecutive Paralympic gold, and visually-impaired judoka Kapil Parmar, India’s first Paralympic medal-winner in the sport.
The government has acknowledged the team’s extraordinary achievement with financial rewards, awarding Rs 75 lakh to gold medalists, Rs 50 lakh to silver medalists, and Rs 30 lakh to bronze medalists.
The Paralympians expressed their gratitude and admiration for the PM, with Yogesh Kathuniya, silver medalist in discus throw, remarking, “For everyone, PM means Prime Minister, but for all of us, PM means param mitra (close friend).”
This momentous achievement reflects India’s growing prowess in Paralympic sports, showcasing the country’s dedication to inclusivity and excellence.
First Piper 