Indian Para-Powerlifting Squad at Paralympics 2024: Schedule, medal chances

Paralifting, first introduced at the Tokyo 2020 Paralympics, is set to begin on the 4th of September and offers 20 medal events. Interesting, India will compete in four categories—two men’s and two women’s.

For the past two decades, India has struggled in powerlifting, with Shakina Khatun's 5th-place finish in Tokyo, lifting 93 kg, being the closest to success.

Despite the challenges, Indian para-lifters remain determined to make their mark on the global stage.

Medal chances

Participating in para-powerlifting since 1996, India’s sole medal came from Rajinder Singh Rahelu at the 2004 Athens Paralympics in the Men’s 56kg category.

Singh lifted 157.5 kg to originally finish fourth, but was later awarded bronze after Syrian lifter Youseff Younes Cheikh was disqualified for doping.

As India’s para-powerlifting contingent kicks off their campaign on Wednesday, there is renewed hope of the paralifters ending the nation’s 20-year medal drought.

Among the hopefuls is Parmjeet Kaur, who secured his ticket to Paris with a silver medal at this year’s Para Powerlifting World Cup in Egypt.

Competing in the men’s 49kg category, Parmjeet aims to build on his World Cup success and his previous Para Asian Games bronze from 2018 in his Summer Games debut.

Another strong contender is Ashok, a World Cup silver medalist, who will be pushing for a podium finish.

In the women’s section, Sakina and Kasthuri would strive to improve their personal bests and secure a place on the podium.

Squad:

Parmjeet Kumar - Men's up to 49kg

Ashok Kumar - Men's up to 65kg

Sakina Khatun - Women's up to 45kg

Kasthuri Rajamani - Women's up to 67kg

Schedule (In IST):

Wednesday, 4th September 2024

Men's up to 49 kg Finals: 3:30 p.m.

Women's up to 45 kg Finals: 8:30 p.m.

Thursday, 5th September 2024

Men's up to 65 kg Finals: 11:05 p.m.

Friday, 6th September 2024

Women's up to 67 kg Finals: 8:30 p.m.