India's Paralympic Heroes Receive Grand Welcome and Cash Awards

India’s Paralympic Heroes Receive Grand Welcome and Cash Awards

India’s Paralympic heroes received a grand welcome and cash awards upon their return from the Paris Paralympics, where they achieved a historic medal haul of 29. Sports Minister Mansukh Mandaviya announced cash rewards of Rs 75 lakh for gold medallists, Rs 50 lakh for silver winners, and Rs 30 lakh for bronze medallists. Mixed team event participants, such as archer Sheetal Devi, received Rs 22.5 lakh.

Mandaviya pledged full support and facilities for para-athletes to excel in the 2028 Los Angeles Paralympics. He highlighted India’s remarkable progress in Paralympics, from 4 medals in 2016 to 19 in Tokyo and 29 in Paris, securing an 18th place finish.

India’s Paralympic campaign culminated with a remarkable 29 medals, including 7 gold, 9 silver, and 13 bronze, surpassing the country’s previous best performance. This achievement also marked India’s crossing of the 50-medal mark in Paralympic Games history.

Navdeep Singh’s gold medal in the men’s javelin throw F41 final was India’s 29th and final medal. Despite initial controversy, Navdeep’s silver was upgraded to gold after the Iranian athlete’s disqualification. His coach, Naval Singh, praised Navdeep’s technique, comparing it favorably to Olympic star Neeraj Chopra.

Navdeep acknowledged his coach’s significant role in his success, crediting him for his international-level javelin throwing skills. The coach expressed pride in Navdeep’s achievements and predicted future record-breaking performances.

British Indian Schoolgirl Conquers English Channel for Charity

British Indian Schoolgirl Conquers English Channel for Charity

Prisha Tapre, a 16-year-old British Indian schoolgirl, has etched her name in history as one of the youngest swimmers to conquer the treacherous English Channel. Driven by a desire to combat childhood hunger, she embarked on a four-year training journey that culminated in an 11-hour and 48-minute swim from Dover, England, to Cap Gris Nez, France.

Tapre’s motivation stemmed from a family discussion about the English Channel’s notorious reputation. Despite her young age, she was determined to take on the challenge. With unwavering support from her family and coach, she dedicated herself to rigorous training sessions.

The swim itself was a grueling test of endurance and mental fortitude. Tapre faced choppy waters and jellyfish stings, but she remained focused on her goal. “I just kept thinking, four years you’ve dedicated to this one day of your life. It can’t be that bad,” she said.

Tapre’s determination was fueled by her desire to support Akshaya Patra UK, a charity that provides hot meals to children in need in both England and India. “I wanted a charity that I could relate to,” she explained. “My heart goes out to all those kids who live in poverty, both in England and India, where there’s no promise of a meal at the end of the day.”

Through her swim, Tapre raised an impressive GBP 3,700 for Akshaya Patra UK. Her efforts have not only made a tangible difference in the lives of underprivileged children but have also inspired others to pursue their dreams.

Despite her remarkable achievement, Tapre remains humble and focused on her future. She plans to continue swimming and is considering a career in medicine, possibly related to sports. “I do need a lot more time to focus on my studies, but that will not stop me from continuing swimming because to me it is like free time,” she said.

Tapre’s journey is a testament to the power of determination, perseverance, and the desire to make a positive impact on the world. Her story serves as an inspiration to young people everywhere, reminding them that anything is possible with hard work and a belief in oneself.

Formula One Design Guru Adrian Newey Joins Aston Martin

Formula One Design Guru Adrian Newey Joins Aston Martin

Formula One design legend Adrian Newey, renowned for his exceptional engineering prowess, has announced his departure from Red Bull to join Aston Martin in 2025. This highly anticipated move marks a significant chapter in the British team’s ambitious plans to establish itself as a championship contender.

Newey, a 65-year-old Briton, has been instrumental in the success of several Formula One teams throughout his illustrious career. His designs have propelled drivers to 12 World Constructors’ Championships and 13 World Driver Championships, a testament to his unparalleled expertise in aerodynamics and vehicle performance.

As managing technical partner and shareholder at Aston Martin, Newey will play a pivotal role in shaping the team’s F1 car development. His arrival coincides with the introduction of new technical regulations in 2026, providing him with an opportunity to showcase his innovative thinking and push the boundaries of Formula One design.

“I am thrilled to be joining Aston Martin,” said Newey. “I have been hugely inspired and impressed by the passion and commitment that Lawrence [Stroll] brings to everything he is involved with.”

Newey’s appointment is a major coup for Aston Martin, which has set its sights on challenging the established order in Formula One. The team’s owner, Lawrence Stroll, has invested heavily in infrastructure and personnel, and Newey’s arrival is a clear indication of their determination to succeed.

Newey will work closely with Aston Martin’s drivers, including Stroll’s son Lance and two-time world champion Fernando Alonso. His experience and technical acumen will be invaluable in helping the team extract maximum performance from their cars and challenge for race wins and championships.

The Formula One community eagerly awaits Newey’s impact at Aston Martin. His reputation as one of the greatest engineers in the sport’s history precedes him, and his arrival is expected to elevate the team’s competitiveness and push the boundaries of innovation.

Indian Chess Prodigy Shubhi Gupta Bags Two Medals at Commonwealth Championships

Indian Chess Prodigy Shubhi Gupta Bags Two Medals at Commonwealth Championships

Indian chess prodigy Shubhi Gupta has once again showcased her exceptional talent by bagging two medals at the recently concluded Commonwealth Chess Championships in Kalutara, Sri Lanka. The 16-year-old from Ghaziabad clinched the gold medal in the girls’ U-16 category and a bronze medal in the girls’ U-20 category, demonstrating her dominance in both age groups.

In the U-16 category, Shubhi displayed remarkable consistency, securing seven wins and two draws. Her exceptional score of eight points out of a possible nine placed her ahead of her compatriots Mrittika Mallick (7 points) and Yashvi Jain (6.5 points), who finished second and third respectively.

Shubhi’s competitive spirit was further evident in the Open category, where she competed against seasoned Grandmasters, International Masters, and Women Grandmasters. Despite the formidable competition, she managed to score 4.5 points, securing her a bronze medal in the U-20 girls’ division.

Reflecting on her success, Shubhi expressed her delight at performing consistently in both the U-16 and Open categories. She attributed her success to the experience of playing against top international players and the confidence gained from her previous achievements, including winning the Commonwealth U-12 title and the World Cadet Championship.

Shubhi’s father introduced her to chess at a young age, and she has since consistently delivered outstanding performances on the national and international platforms. Her latest triumph has further boosted her confidence and serves as a testament to her dedication and hard work.

Manu Bhaker: India's Shooting Star Shines Bright in Paris

Manu Bhaker: India’s Shooting Star Shines Bright in Paris

Manu Bhaker, India’s shooting star, etched her name into Olympic folklore by becoming the first Indian markswoman to secure a podium finish in the 10m air pistol event at the 2024 Paris Olympics. Her historic bronze medal was followed by a second bronze in the mixed team event, making her India’s first athlete to win two medals in a single Olympics since independence.

Bhaker’s success was not without its challenges. After a disappointing performance at the Tokyo Olympics, she drew inspiration from the Bhagwat Gita, particularly the famous quote, “You have the right to work, but never to the fruit of work.” This mantra fueled her determination to overcome adversity and achieve her Olympic dream.

Beyond her shooting prowess, Bhaker is known for her strong support system. She credits her coach and fellow athletes for their unwavering support, emphasizing the importance of emotional connections for an athlete’s well-being. Her role model, badminton superstar PV Sindhu, has been a constant source of inspiration, with Bhaker even creating fake profiles to defend Sindhu on social media.

Bhaker’s double bronze feat has brought her a wave of new opportunities and responsibilities. She has become a national icon, carrying the Indian flag during the closing ceremony of the Paris Games. Her success has also inspired others, reminding them of the power of determination and resilience.

In a recent interview, Bhaker shared her daily routine, which includes yoga, shooting practice, physical fitness, and time for relaxation. She also spoke about her memorable interaction with Neeraj Chopra, India’s javelin throw champion, who shared his insights on the pressures of competition and the importance of mental strength.

Bhaker’s journey is a testament to the transformative power of sport. Her achievements have not only brought glory to India but have also inspired countless young athletes to pursue their dreams. As she prepares for the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics, Bhaker remains determined to continue her legacy of excellence and inspire future generations.

Deepthi Jeevanji Wins Bronze in Women's 400m T20 at Paris Paralympics

Deepthi Jeevanji Wins Bronze in Women’s 400m T20 at Paris Paralympics

Deepthi Jeevanji, a para-athlete from India, has triumphed over adversity to clinch the bronze medal in the women’s 400m T20 category at the Paris Paralympics 2024. Despite falling short of her personal best, Deepthi’s remarkable performance earned her a place on the podium behind Ukraine’s Yuliia Shuliar and Turkey’s Aysel Onder, the world record holder.

Deepthi’s journey to the Paralympics has been marked by resilience and determination. Born with intellectual disability, she faced relentless mockery and discrimination from her neighbors, who labeled her a “monkey” and urged her parents to abandon her. Undeterred, Deepthi’s parents stood by her, providing unwavering support that fueled her passion for sports.

“I was born during an eclipse, so our neighbors kept speaking against me. They called me monkey and advised my parents to abandon me or leave me at an orphanage. But I ignored all the negativity and focused on my sport,” Deepthi told India Today.

Financial challenges also plagued Deepthi’s family. Her parents were forced to sell their land to make ends meet. However, after winning an Asian Games medal, Deepthi used her earnings to buy back the land for her family.

Deepthi’s mother, Jeevanji Dhanalaxmi, recalled the taunts her daughter endured growing up. “Every villager who saw her and some of our relatives would call Deepthi pichi (mental) and kothi (monkey) and tell us to send her to an orphanage,” she told The Indian Express.

Despite the hardships, Deepthi remained focused on her athletic pursuits. She found solace in sweet rice and chicken, which her mother would prepare to comfort her after facing ridicule.

Deepthi’s bronze medal at the Paralympics is a testament to her indomitable spirit and the power of perseverance. It is a victory not only for her but also for all those who have faced adversity and triumphed over it.

Boxing's Olympic Future Hinges on World Boxing's Recognition

Boxing’s Olympic Future Hinges on World Boxing’s Recognition

The future of boxing as an Olympic sport hangs in the balance as the International Olympic Committee (IOC) weighs the recognition of World Boxing (WB), the newly formed international federation. WB is racing against time to increase its membership and gain formal recognition from the IOC by the end of the year, as boxing is not currently included in the initial program for the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics.

The International Boxing Association (IBA), boxing’s former world governing body, was stripped of its recognition by the IOC in 2019 due to concerns over governance, financial transparency, and refereeing. The IOC organized the boxing competition at the Tokyo Games and will do so again at the Paris Olympics.

WB, led by Dutch president Boris van der Vorst, is actively seeking support from National Olympic Committees (NOCs) in Asia and around the world. Van der Vorst acknowledges the urgency of the situation, stating that WB needs to fulfill the IOC’s criteria for recognition as the world governing body for boxing.

Despite WB’s efforts, progress in gaining membership has been slow. IBA, led by Russian Umar Kremlev, has been actively trying to retain its members, particularly in Africa and Asia. IBA has unveiled new tournaments with increased prize money, including the IBA Team World Cup and the IBA Champions’ Night.

The Asian Boxing Confederation (ABC) recently voted against joining WB, with only nine Asian boxing federations, including India, joining the new organization. IBA maintains a strong hold on boxing federations in Africa, with only one federation (Nigeria) switching to WB.

India’s role in shaping WB is seen as crucial. BFI president Ajay Singh has met with Van der Vorst and emphasized the importance of India’s voice within world boxing. Singh believes that an alternative world body is essential for boxing’s Olympic future.

The IOC has made it clear that it will not remove boxing from the LA ’28 Olympics on its own, but a viable world body must emerge. WB is working diligently to meet the IOC’s requirements and gain recognition by the end of the year.

Navdeep Singh's Javelin Throw Triumph Earns India 29th Paralympic Medal

Navdeep Singh’s Javelin Throw Triumph Earns India 29th Paralympic Medal

Navdeep Singh’s triumph in the men’s javelin throw F41 final at the Paris Paralympic Games marked a historic moment for India, securing the nation’s 29th and final medal of the campaign. The gold medal victory also marked India’s seventh gold medal in the prestigious event.

Navdeep’s journey to the podium was not without its challenges. Initially awarded a silver medal, his status was upgraded to gold following the disqualification of Iranian athlete Mahdi Olad for displaying a flag during the competition. Despite the controversy, Navdeep’s elation was evident as he celebrated his victory, putting the disappointment of the Tokyo Paralympics behind him.

Comparisons were drawn between Navdeep and India’s Olympic star Neeraj Chopra, who had previously won a gold medal in the Tokyo Olympics and a silver medal in the Paris Olympics. Navdeep’s coach, Naval Singh, went so far as to claim that his ward’s technique surpassed that of Chopra.

“Navdeep’s technique is even better than Neeraj Chopra’s,” Singh told Times of India. “If he were in able-bodied athletics, he would have done wonders. But we are all proud of Navdeep. This is just the start for him—he is going to break several records.”

Navdeep himself acknowledged the role of his coach in his success, crediting Singh for his unwavering support and guidance over the years. “My coach, Naval Singh, has worked a lot with me,” Navdeep said. “He has trained me for almost seven years. He has played a big role in my career. Whatever I am today, it’s because of him.”

Reflecting on his winning throw of 47.32 meters in the final, Navdeep revealed a unique strategy: “Falling is my last resort. When I fall, that throw goes well.”

Navdeep’s victory serves as an inspiration to athletes with disabilities, demonstrating that with determination and hard work, anything is possible. His achievement is a testament to the indomitable spirit of the human body and the power of sports to transcend boundaries.

Indian Chess Team Soars to New Heights Ahead of Budapest Olympiad

Indian Chess Team Soars to New Heights Ahead of Budapest Olympiad

Indian Chess Soars to New Heights Ahead of Budapest Olympiad

Two years ago, D Gukesh’s stunning performance at the Chennai Olympiad signaled a new era for Indian chess. Since then, the country has witnessed remarkable growth, with several players making history and breaking records.

As the 44th Chess Olympiad approaches in Budapest, India boasts an unprecedented four players in the top 12 of the world rankings, including Gukesh at No. 7. The team, seeded second behind the USA, is brimming with confidence and optimism.

“This is the strongest Indian team ever,” says Open section captain Srinath Narayanan. “We are very optimistic about our chances.”

The Olympiad, a biennial team event, brings together players from over 190 countries. India’s young and talented squad is expected to perform exceptionally well.

“The sense of team doesn’t come naturally in chess,” says Narayanan. “But everyone in the current side really wants to win.”

In the Chennai Olympiad, India’s ‘B’ team, featuring Gukesh and Praggnanandhaa, won bronze over the higher-rated ‘A’ team. This year, the team is even stronger and more motivated.

“We’ve transformed from being underdogs to being the favorites against almost every team,” says Narayanan. “Our young players are still fresh from playing in Open tournaments and have the flexibility to adapt.”

In the women’s section, India will be without Koneru Humpy but still has a strong team led by Vaishali and Harika Dronavalli. They will face challenges from Georgia, Poland, and Ukraine.

“The enormity of an Olympiad is quite unique,” says Narayanan. “As captain, I get to watch some of the world’s best players from a close proximity. There’s not a whole lot more you can ask for as a chess fan.”

With a formidable team and a surge in confidence, India is poised to make a significant impact at the Budapest Olympiad. A medal of any color would be a testament to the remarkable progress Indian chess has made in recent years.

India Thrash Japan 5-1 in Asian Champions Trophy

India Thrash Japan 5-1 in Asian Champions Trophy

India’s men’s hockey team continued their impressive form at the Asian Champions Trophy, securing a dominant 5-1 victory over Japan on Monday. The defending champions, who had earlier defeated hosts China 3-0, now sit atop the six-team standings with six points from two games.

Sukhjeet Singh opened the scoring for India within two minutes, deflecting in a cross from Sanjay. Abhishek doubled the lead a minute later, dribbling past multiple Japanese defenders and rounding goalkeeper Takumi Kitagawa. Sanjay extended India’s advantage in the second quarter with a penalty corner deflection.

Japan managed to pull one back through Kazumasa Matsumoto in the third quarter, but India responded with goals from Uttam Singh and Sukhjeet Singh in the final period. Sukhjeet’s second goal came in the final minute, assisted by Player-of-the-Match Abhishek.

India dominated the match, with 27 circle penetrations to Japan’s 11. They also converted one of their two penalty corner opportunities, while Japan failed to convert any of their three short corner chances.

“It was a complete team effort,” said Abhishek. “We stuck to the basics. We produced a good attack and ensured we were on target.”

India will next face Malaysia on Wednesday in a repeat of last edition’s final.

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