India’s Paralympic Journey Begins – Day 1 Schedule at Paris 2024

India’s participation at the 2024 Paralympics in Paris is unprecedented, with 84 athletes ready to compete across a wide range of sports. With established champions like Sumit Antil and Avani Lekhara leading the charge, the nation is aiming for its best-ever performance.

Para-Badminton Opens the Day’s Events

India’s para-badminton stars will begin their Paris Paralympic journey on Thursday. The matches start at 12:00 PM, with mixed doubles matches featuring Nitesh Kumar, Suhas Yathiraj, Palak Kohli, and Thulasimathi Murugesan.

• 12:00 PM (IST): Nitesh Kumar and Thulasimathi Murugesan vs. Suhas Yathiraj and Palak Kohli in the SL3-SU5 mixed doubles event.
• 12:40 PM (IST): Sivarajan Solaimalai and Nithya Sre Sivan take on a US team in the SH6 mixed doubles.

The afternoon continues with multiple singles matches, including former Paralympic champion Manasi Joshi.

Aruna Tanwar Eyes Taekwondo Glory

In para-taekwondo, India’s Aruna Tanwar will be aiming to make a mark in the women’s K44-47kg category. Her opening match against Turkey’s Nurcihan Ekinci is scheduled for 1:30 PM, with the possibility of advancing to the medal rounds later in the evening.

Indian Archers Take Aim in Ranking Rounds

India’s para-archers will also be competing on Day 1, with key ranking rounds determining their positions for the knockout stages.

• 4:30 PM (IST): The men’s individual recurve open features Harvinder Singh, while Sarita and Sheetal Devi will compete in the women’s individual compound open event.

The evening session includes mixed team ranking rounds for the compound and recurve events, setting the stage for later medal rounds.

Cycling: India’s Emerging Force

Para-cycling is another event to watch, with Jyoti Gaderiya representing India in the women’s C1-3 3000m individual pursuit. Her qualifying race starts at 4:25 PM, and if she qualifies, she will compete in the final rounds later in the evening.

Evening Matches to Close Day 1

The day will wrap up with late-night para-badminton matches, featuring Indian athletes competing in the second round of mixed doubles group play, including Nitesh Kumar and Suhas Yathiraj.

India’s packed schedule and strong lineup make Day 1 a thrilling start to the Paris 2024 Paralympics, with fans eagerly awaiting the results.