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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.
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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.
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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