Credit- The Hindu

#) Introduction:

          The Paralympic Games are more than just a sports event; they are a powerful force for change. Starting as a small event for injured soldiers after World War II, the Paralympics have grown into a major international competition. These games show the incredible abilities of athletes with disabilities and help change how society views disability. They promote inclusion and inspire millions of people around the world. This article will explore how the Paralympic Games impact society, share stories of amazing athletes, discuss new sports technologies, and look at the ongoing efforts to create a more inclusive world.

#) Historical context:

   The Paralympic Games began in 1948 with the Stoke Mandeville Games, organized by Dr. Ludwig Guttmann for World War II veterans with spinal injuries. This event, featuring 16 athletes, marked the start of using sports for rehabilitation.

      In 1960, the first official Paralympic Games were held in Rome, Italy, with 400 athletes from 23 countries. The Games continued to grow, including the first Winter Paralympics in 1976.

     Since 1988, the Paralympics have been held in the same cities and venues as the Olympics, thanks to an agreement between the International Paralympic Committee (IPC) and the International Olympic Committee (IOC). Today, the Paralympics are a major international event, promoting inclusivity and challenging perceptions of disability.

India’s Participation and First Winner; India first participated in the Paralympic Games in 1968. The country’s first Paralympic medal came in the 1972 Games when Murlikant Petkar won a gold medal in the men’s 50-meter freestyle swimming event.This victory marked a significant milestone for India in the Paralympic movement.

#) Social Impact:

     The Paralympic Games have significantly influenced societal attitudes towards disability and inclusivity by:

●       Changing Perceptions: Highlighting the abilities of athletes with disabilities, shifting views from limitations to capabilities.

●       Promoting Inclusivity: Leading to improved accessibility and inclusivity in host countries.

●       Raising Awareness: Increasing public understanding and respect through extensive media coverage.

●       Legislative Changes: Acting as a catalyst for new laws and policies benefiting people with disabilities.

●       Social and Economic Benefits: Enhancing social security, employment, and education opportunities for disabled individuals.

source- Wikipedia

#) Athlete Stories:

Global Paralympic Athletes:

●       Jessica Long (USA): Overcame leg amputations to win 23 Paralympic medals in swimming.

●       Melissa Stockwell (USA): Former soldier turned Paralympic triathlete after losing her leg in combat.

●       Matt Scott (USA): Four-time Paralympian in wheelchair basketball, known for his remarkable recovery from illness.

Indian Paralympic Athletes

●       Devendra Jhajharia: Two-time gold medalist in javelin throw, despite losing his left arm.

●       Deepa Malik: First Indian woman to win a Paralympic medal (silver in shot put), paralyzed from the waist down.

●       Mariyappan Thangavelu: Gold medalist in high jump, lost his right leg in an accident at age five.

These athletes have not only excelled in their sports but also inspired many by breaking barriers and advocating for disability rights.

#) Technological Advancements:

●       Prosthetics and Orthotics: Modern prosthetics, like carbon fiber running blades, enhance speed and agility for amputee athletes.

●       Wheelchair Technology: Customized sports wheelchairs improve mobility and performance in sports like basketball and racing.

●       Assistive Devices: Specialized equipment, such as release braces in archery, aid athletes with limited mobility.

●       Smart Wearable: Devices like sensors and smartwatches provide real-time performance data, optimizing training and preventing injuries.

●       VR and AR: These technologies create immersive training environments, helping athletes simulate real-world scenarios.

●       Inclusive Design: Ensures sports facilities and equipment are accessible to all, promoting inclusivity and breaking down barriers.

These advancements not only boost athletic performance but also enhance the overall experience for Paralympic athletes.

#) Future Prospects:

The future of the Paralympic movement is bright, with several opportunities and challenges ahead:

Opportunities

●       Increased Visibility: Growing global viewership helps challenge stereotypes and promote inclusivity.

●       Technological Advancements: Innovations in assistive technologies enhance athlete performance and daily life for people with disabilities.

●       Policy Influence: The Games drive policy changes and advocacy for accessibility and rights.

●       Grassroots Development: Investment in local sports programs nurtures future athletes and promotes inclusivity.

Challenges

●       Funding: Limited financial support for athletes and programs.

●       Accessibility: Ongoing barriers in sports facilities and public spaces.

●       Representation: Need for balanced media portrayal of athletes.

●       Sustainability: Ensuring long-term investments and environmental responsibility.

By addressing these challenges and leveraging opportunities, the Paralympic movement can continue to inspire and empower people with disabilities worldwide.

Paris Paralympic Games 2024

The Paris Paralympic Games 2024 are set to be a landmark event, showcasing the incredible talents of athletes with disabilities from around the world. Scheduled to take place from August 28 to September 8, 2024, these Games will feature 22 sports, including new additions like Para-taekwondo and Para-badminton.

source- X

Athletes and Indian Achievements

The Paris 2024 Paralympics will see participation from top athletes globally, including a strong contingent from India. India has achieved its best-ever performance at these Games, securing a total of 29 medals - seven gold, nine silver, and 13 bronze.

Notable Indian Winners:

●       Avani Lekhara: Defends her title in the women’s 10m air rifle standing SH1 shooting event, setting a world record.

●       Sumit Antil: Won gold in the men’s javelin throw F64, breaking his own Paralympic record multiple times.

●       Dharambir: Clinched gold in the men’s club throw F51, setting a new Asian record.

●       Preethi Pal: Secured bronze in the women’s 100m T35 race and another bronze in the 200m, making her India’s most successful athlete at the Games.

●       Sheetal Devi: Became India’s youngest Paralympic medalist at 17, winning bronze in the mixed team archery event.

These achievements highlight the exceptional talent and determination of Indian para-athletes, contributing to a historic performance for the country at the Paris Paralympics.

In essence, the Paris 2024 Paralympics promise to be a celebration of athletic excellence and a powerful platform for social change, driving forward the message of inclusivity and equality.

Team Yuva Aaveg

Praveen Kumar Maurya

Here the festival of games is going to start. The Olympic games, which were held in the capital city of France, are ready to host athletes from 196 nations. These 196 countries will be represented by about 10,700 athletes in 32 games. Now it’s time to talk something about our Bharat and its players.

Image Source

71.1) Indians in the Paris:

The Indian Olympic Committee is going to Paris with 118 athletes. The chef-de-mission of the Indian diaspora is the 2012 Olympic Games bronze medal winner, Gagan Narang. Gagan has replaced the female boxer and legend M.C. Marycom. She has denied it due to personal reasons. The Pursala Venkata Sindhu, popular as PV Sindhu and A. Sharath Kamal, will be our flag bearers. In the Olympics, the gold medal is very few for our players since the free India has been participating in this game. The first individual medal, which was bronze, was won by the great wrestler K D Jadhav in the year 1952, while the field hockey team won the gold medal in the 1948 Olympics. If we talk about the individual gold medals, we can count it on our fingertips. Only Abhinav Bindra (in shooting) and Neeraj Chopra (in javelin throw) have won the gold for India. Every country in the world sends its best players to the Olympics,  so Bharat is also doing so. Being an Indian, we expect that the color of the medals of our athletes will be golden color, and every athlete participating in the Olympics will come with hoisting our Tiranga. Especially we are hoping that Neeraj Chopra and his group will again come with gold. Our badminton team is currently playing very sincerely so we can also look for gold towards them. Players of other games, like wrestling, shooting, hockey, fencing, running, etc., will also make us proud.

71.2) History of Olympic Games:

The Olympic games are played mainly in two seasons i.e. summer and winter. Since the players and countries participating in the Winter Olympics are very few in number, the Summer Olympics is very famous among all the countries.  The summer Olympics was started in Athens, Greece, in the year 1896. Pierre de Coubertin is known as the father of the summer Olympics.  He made a very important contribution in starting these games. The 33^rd edition of the Olympic Games is to be held in Paris, will start on 26 July 2024, and will come to an end on 11 August 2024. This time, 32 games will be played, out of which 28 are core games (played in previous Olympics) while four new games, i.e. surfing, sport climbing, breaking, and skateboarding.  These games will be played in 329 events. The inauguration of the Paris Olympics will be held on the bank of the Sean River in Paris. 

71.3) Benefits of hosting these games:

When we see these games, a genuine question arises in our mind: Why does any country want to host these games? The host country faced an economic problem after the games came to an end. But why does every big nation want to host it?
The reason behind the hosting is that the country represents the whole world at that time. Also, the chances of tourism, FDI inflow, and sponsors also show interest in that country. The gaming culture among the youth of that country rises very sharply, and the country gets funding easily from many countries and organizations.

71.4) Conclusion:

The world is running on hopes and expectations. These hopes always run in the minds of those people who have a little bit of interest in any type of game. We, the Indians, were always a great supporter of promoting and playing the games. We have great expectations with our athletes participating in games like javelin throw, badminton, field hockey, chess, tennis, table tennis, marathon, cycling, weightlifting,  boxing, etc. The 118  players participating are not only representing their town or city, but they are representing Bharat on such a big stage. We must have to support every Indian player participating in any game. And the cheers of INDIA …..INDIA  never be stopped.

— Team Yuva Aaveg

(Shashwat Tripathi)

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Known as the "gentleman's game," cricket has a centuries-long history filled with legend and rich detail. From its humble beginnings in England, this sport has spread over the world, being enjoyed by millions of people in many countries and cultures. This article explores the intriguing history of cricket, detailing its inception, growth, and key turning points that have molded the sport into what it is now.

67.1) Origin of Cricket:

Cricket's precise beginnings are not entirely clear, as its early history is poorly recorded. Nonetheless, it is widely acknowledged that the game originated in the 16th century in the southeast of England. The first conclusive account of cricket matches dates back to a 1597 court case in Guildford, Surrey. This example refers to a sport known as "creckett," suggesting that the game had already gained popularity and usage at that point.

It is thought that cricket originated as a kid's game, using a simple bat and ball in its primitive form. The game changed with time, and in the 17th century, more adults started playing. With cricket becoming more and more popular among the gentry and nobility, shifts in socioeconomic institutions had a profound impact on the game's evolution.

67.2) Development and Codification:

Cricket underwent substantial progress in the 18th century. The first recorded cricket clubs were formed, and with them came greater formalization and structure to the game. The most famous of these was the 1760s-founded Hambledon Club. Often considered to as the birthplace of cricket, Hambledon was instrumental in the development of the rules of the game.

The Laws of Cricket were introduced during this period, which was one of the major developments. The London Club drafted the first version of these laws in 1744. The size of the pitch and the method of dismissals were among the key elements of the game that these laws established. Founded in 1787, the Marylebone Cricket Club (MCC) later assumed responsibility for the upkeep and updating of the laws, a duty it still plays today.

67.3) The Evolution of the Game:

Cricket continued to develop in the 19th century, with notable adjustments made to the game's structure and playing style. Cricket's dynamics were changed when round-arm and then over-arm bowling were introduced, making the game more skill-based and competitive. These were contentious modifications at first, which sparked intense discussions until they were finally accepted.

During this time, cricket also started to gain popularity outside of England. The game's international diffusion was greatly aided by the British Empire. Cricket had spread throughout Australia, the West Indies, India, and South Africa by the middle of the 19th century. The United States and Canada played the first ever international cricket match in 1844, demonstrating the sport's expanding appeal on a global scale.

67.4) The Birth of Test Cricket:

The longest and most established format of the game, Test cricket, began in the latter half of the 1800s. England and Australia played their first Test match at the Melbourne Cricket Ground in 1877. This game set the stage for the Ashes rivalry, which has grown to be one of the most cherished in sports history.

Test cricket swiftly rose to prominence as the highest level of the game, with nations competing for dominance in this final challenge of talent, stamina, and cunning. The format's allure rested in its capacity to test players' skills over long stretches of time and in a variety of weather situations, so serving as a genuine litmus test for both individual and team cricketers.

67.5) The Golden Age of Cricket:

The term "golden age of cricket" is frequently used to describe the early 1900s. Some of the best players in the history of the game rose to prominence during this time. Legendary performers like W.G. Grace, Victor Trumper, and Jack Hobbs captivated audiences with their remarkable skill and charisma.

Cricket's globalization continued throughout this time, as more nations took an interest in the game. Established in 1909 to supervise the administration of international cricket, the Imperial Cricket Conference is currently known as the International Cricket Council, or ICC. This organization was essential to the game's continued evolution and regulation.

67.6) The Impact of World Wars:

Just as they did with every part of life, the two World Wars had a significant effect on cricket. A number of domestic contests were canceled and international cricket was suspended as a result of the wartime interruption. A large number of cricket players were in the armed forces, and several of them died in battle.

Cricket persevered and, in a sense, grew stronger in spite of these obstacles. The popularity of the game had a renaissance in the post-war era, with players and fans alike displaying a newfound feeling of enthusiasm and camaraderie.

67.7) The Rise of Limited-Overs Cricket:

Limited-overs cricket was a breakthrough development of the 1960s and 1970s. The goal of this new format was to offer a more thrilling and viewer-friendly version of the game. The initial List After a limited-overs game was played in England in 1963, the idea took off.

In cricket's history, the introduction of One Day Internationals (ODIs) in the early 1970s was a momentous occasion. After Australia and England played their first ODI in 1971, the format quickly gained enormous popularity. The inaugural Cricket World Cup, which took place in England in 1975, contributed to the international recognition of limited-overs cricket.

67.8) The Era of Commercialization:

Cricket witnessed substantial commercialization in the latter half of the 20th century. The addition of white balls, night matches, and colorful apparel gave the game a fresh twist. The media, especially television, was instrumental in making cricket a popular and profitable sport.

The Indian Premier League (IPL), which was founded in 2008, is a prime example of how cricket has been commercialized. The IPL combined cricket with entertainment by assembling the finest players in the world for a franchise-based Twenty20 league that drew a sizable international viewership. The IPL's success opened doors for additional T20 leagues around the globe, increasing the sport's appeal and financial sustainability.

67.9) Women's Cricket:

Despite being neglected a lot, women's cricket has a rich history that parallels that of men's cricket. In 1745, a women's cricket match was first documented in England. The first women's Test match took place in 1934 between Australia and England, and the Women's Cricket Association was established in 1926.

The game for women has advanced significantly, especially in the last several years. Established in 1958, the International Women's Cricket Council (IWCC) amalgamated with the Indian Cricket Council (ICC) in 2005, placing women's cricket under the same regulatory body as men's cricket. The Women's T20 World Cup in 2009 and the Women's Cricket World Cup in 1973 have given female cricket players a global platform to display their skills.

67.10) The Modern Era:

In the twenty-first century, cricket combines innovation with heritage. Test cricket is still held in high regard, with spectators enthralled by legendary matches and standout performances. Historic rivalries such as the Ashes series and India-Pakistan matches continue to hold their appeal.

The popularity of limited-overs cricket, especially T20, has skyrocketed. Cricket's appeal has expanded, drawing in a younger and more diversified audience because to the fast-paced and exciting character of the genre. Through its endeavors to bring cricket to non-traditional locations, the ICC has been instrumental in the global development and promotion of the game.

Cricket has also been significantly impacted by technological improvements. A new level of accuracy and justice has been introduced to the game through the use of technology in decision-making, such as the Decision Review System (DRS). The way cricket fans connect with the game has changed due to advancements in digital and broadcast media, which have made cricket more approachable and dynamic.

67.11) Conclusion:

Cricket's history demonstrates the game's versatility and ongoing appeal. Cricket has flourished and changed throughout the years, accepting new developments but holding fast to its rich history, from its modest beginnings on English grounds to its current standing as a worldwide phenomenon. The spirit of rivalry, sportsmanship, and friendship is embodied in the game, which continues to inspire and unify people worldwide.

Cricket faces both fresh opportunities and problems as it develops. The future of the game will be greatly influenced by how well it strikes a balance between adopting innovation and maintaining the core elements. Cricket's ageless charm and worldwide appeal guarantee that it will continue to be a favorite sport for many generations to come, regardless of the changes that may occur.

— Team Yuva Aaveg

(Adarsh Tiwari)

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The most successful player in the history of IPL is Rohit Sharma. Mumbai Indians has guided five IPL trophies under the captaincy throne of Rohit Sharma. All five title triumphs have come under the Rohit Sharma's time duration 2013, 2015, 2017, 2019 and 2020.
In the dynamic world of cricket, leadership changes are inevitable, and they often become the talking point among fans and pundits alike. The latest bombshell in the Indian Premier League (IPL) universe revolves around the charismatic cricketer Rohit Sharma, who has been an emblematic figure as the captain of Mumbai Indians. The decision to remove Rohit Sharma from the captaincy has sent shockwaves through the cricketing fraternity, leaving fans pondering the reasons behind this unexpected move.

Replacing Rohit Sharma as the captain of Mumbai Indians marked the end of an era in IPL.

By the report of The Indian Express, Rohit was informed before the Cricket world Cup that Hardik would be the returning to the fold as a captain of franchise. 

The report has also informed that Pandya had agreed to move on from Gujrat, where he made formidable records in just two season.

The Glorious Captaincy Stint:

Rohit Sharma's journey as the skipper of Mumbai Indians has been nothing short of spectacular. Under his captaincy, the franchise has flourished, clinching multiple IPL titles and etching its name in the annals of T20 cricket history. Sharma's astute captaincy, combined with his prolific batting, turned Mumbai Indians into a formidable force, making them the most successful team in the IPL.

The Strategic Shift:

However, the winds of change have swept through the Mumbai Indians' camp as the decision-makers opted for a strategic shift. The move to replace Rohit Sharma as the captain signifies a bold departure from the status quo. Speculations are rife about the rationale behind this decision, with many cricket enthusiasts and experts trying to decipher the underlying dynamics at play.

Team Dynamics and Performance:

Cricket, as they say, is a team sport, and the decision to change the captaincy often stems from an assessment of team dynamics and performance. Mumbai Indians might be looking to infuse fresh energy and a new perspective into their leadership. It could be a strategic move to revitalize the team and chart a course for sustained success in the seasons to come.

Injury Concerns:

Another aspect that cannot be ignored is Rohit Sharma's recent battle with injuries. The fitness of a captain is paramount, as it directly influences his on-field performance and decision-making abilities. Mumbai Indians may have taken this into account while making the tough call to relieve Sharma of his captaincy duties, with an eye on ensuring a fit and firing leader for the upcoming seasons.

Leadership Succession Plan:

Every successful team needs a well-thought-out leadership succession plan. Mumbai Indians may have carefully considered the long-term goals and decided to groom a new captain to take the reins. This move could be part of a strategic vision aimed at building a leadership pipeline within the team, ensuring a seamless transition when the time comes for Rohit Sharma to step back.

Media Speculations and Fan Reactions:

As news of Rohit Sharma's removal from the captaincy spread like wildfire, the media and fans were quick to react. Social media platforms buzzed with discussions, debates, and memes, reflecting the passionate and emotional response of the cricketing community. Some expressed shock, while others speculated on the possible repercussions for the team's performance in the upcoming season.

Mahela Jayawardene stated, "It was a tough decision. It was emotional, to be honest. It's fair on the fans as well. I think everyone is emotional and we have to respect that as well. But at the same time, as a franchise, you have to make those decisions."

Despite the change in leader of Mumbai Indians, Jayawardene assured fans that Rohit will play vital role in the match, both off and on field. Because to guide the upcoming generation is also very important. 

Jayawardene affirmed that Rohit will be part of legacy that who will guide through.

Jayawardene also gave a lot explanation regarding this that Appointing Hardik Pandya as a team captain is based on completely meaning conversation. Everyone is thinking that it is too hurry to replace him but it is a decision which we had to make at some point.

Former Indian and Mumbai Indian player Wasim Zafar said in ESPNCricinfo, "I'm surprised that MI has moved from Rohit Sharma so early. It happened so quickly, I'm also a little surprised. When they did the trade, it was probably communicated to Hardik that he was going to become the captain. But whether it was communicated to Rohit, I don't know."

Jayawardene added in his statement that We express our gratitude to Rohit Sharma for his exceptional leadership, his tenure as the captain of the Mumbai Indians since 2013 has been nothing short of extraordinary. His leadership has not only brought unparalleled success to the team but has also solidified his place as one of the finest captains in the history of the IPL.

Conclusion:

In the ever-evolving landscape of cricket, decisions that reshape the dynamics of a team are both inevitable and essential. Mumbai Indians' move to remove Rohit Sharma from the captaincy is a watershed moment in IPL history, and only time will reveal the wisdom behind this strategic decision. As fans eagerly await the unfolding of the next chapter in Mumbai Indians' journey, one thing is certain – the cricketing world will be closely watching the team's performance and the impact of this leadership shake-up in the seasons to come. Team Yuva Aaveg- Avantika

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