India’s para athletes once again gave the nation a reason to celebrate with their brilliant performances at the World Para Athletics Championships. On Friday, India rose from seventh to fourth place after winning four medals. Nishad Kumar claimed gold in the high jump, while Simran Sharma secured her first world title in the 100m race.

Meanwhile, Preeti Pal and Pardeep Kumar contributed bronze medals in the 200m and discus throw events. As a result, India’s total medal count increased to six gold, five silver, and four bronze.

Brazil Leads as India Targets Record Medal Haul

At the top of the table, Brazil continued to dominate with 12 gold, 18 silver, and 7 bronze medals. China followed closely with 9 gold, 16 silver, and 13 bronze, while Poland stood third with 8 gold, 2 silver, and 5 bronze.

With just two days remaining, India now aims to surpass its previous best of 17 medals achieved in Japan in 2024. Therefore, the team is determined to finish the championship on a strong note.

Simran Sharma’s First World Title

Simran Sharma, from Delhi, brought India its first gold of the day in the women’s 100m T12 event. She clocked a personal best time of 11.95 seconds, which earned her the gold medal. This was also her first-ever title in the 100m event.

Notably, Simran had previously won gold in the 200m event at the Paralympic Games in Japan and a bronze at the 2024 Paralympics. She will now compete in the 200m event again, hoping to add to her medal tally.

In the T12 category, athletes with vision impairments participate. Simran ran alongside her guide, Umar Saifi. Born two and a half months premature, she spent six months in an incubator. Later, her father, Manoj Sharma, encouraged her to take up athletics.

Expressing her happiness, Simran said, “It is fun to run for your country. I always wanted to do something for my country. I have won a gold medal in 100 meters and now I will also do my best in the 200 meters.”

Nishad Kumar Strikes Gold on His Birthday

On his 26th birthday, Nishad Kumar celebrated in the best possible way — by winning gold in the men’s high jump T47 event. He cleared 2.14 meters, setting a new Asian record. Importantly, this was his first-ever gold at the Paralympics or the World Para Championships.

Previously, Nishad had earned silver medals at the Tokyo and Paris Paralympics, a bronze at the 2019 World Championships, and another silver at the 2023 edition.

Reflecting on his long-awaited achievement, Nishad said, “I have been waiting for this day for a year. I was working very hard for this day. I have given my best. I already have a silver medal. I have been waiting for this gold medal for many years. I wrote in my diary that I will win this gold medal today.”

India Eyes a Strong Finish

So far, India’s para athletes have displayed remarkable determination and consistency. Moreover, with stars like Simran Sharma and Nishad Kumar leading the charge, the team looks well on track to create history. As the final two days approach, India is eager to close the championship with its best-ever medal tally.