“You are not para-athletes, but Power Athletes of Bharat. The pride you brought to the nation after the medal wins and the inspiring message you have given to divyang people is noteworthy. You have transformed disability into determination. This is a new definition of courage that will inspire future generations,” said Dr. Mandaviya during the felicitation ceremony. He added, “These medals are not just metal; they are proof of your unshakeable willpower. You have shown that when intent is strong, wheelchairs can also become wings.”
The felicitation ceremony also recognized the significant role of infrastructure and support services provided during the championship. Athletes praised the MONDO track at Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium, fitness centers, medical rooms, and accommodation facilities for enabling top performance. Para-athletes including Sumit Antil, Sailesh Kumar, and double medalist Preeti Pal highlighted how these arrangements enhanced training, recovery, and competition readiness.
Paralympic Committee of India (PCI) President Devendra Jhajharia lauded the Sports Ministry and Sports Authority of India (SAI) for their unwavering support. “The WPA awarded India a trophy for successfully hosting the event. Both IPC President Andrew Parsons and World Para Athletics President Paul Fritzerald praised the facilities and technical conduct of the championships. This achievement reflects the combined efforts of PCI, SAI, and the Ministry,” he said.
Dr. Mandaviya also highlighted the vision of Prime Minister Narendra Modi in fostering a spirit of New India through sports. He noted that the Prime Minister closely followed the championship, inquiring about athletes’ performances during meetings. The cash awards for medal-winning athletes, totaling over Rs 1.09 crore, were handed over within seven days of the competition, reflecting the government’s commitment to promoting para-sports.
The New Delhi 2025 WPAC was India’s largest-ever para-sport event, hosting over 2,100 participants from 100 countries across 186 medal events. The championships not only showcased India’s organizational capabilities but also highlighted the resilience, skill, and determination of its para-athletes on a global stage.
Concluding the felicitation, Dr. Mandaviya reaffirmed, “The spirit of New India thrives in each of you. Your achievements inspire the nation, particularly persons with disabilities, to pursue excellence and embrace courage in all walks of life.”
