India Tops World Para Athletics Grand Prix with Record 208 Medals | 18 Mar 2026

Why in News? 

India delivered a historic performance at the World Para Athletics Grand Prix, finishing at the top of the medal tally with a record 208 medals. The achievement highlights India’s growing strength in para-sports and its commitment to inclusivity in athletics. 

Key Points: 

• Host: The Grand Prix was hosted in New Delhi, India. 
• Participation: Athletes from multiple countries participated under the aegis of World Para Athletics, a body governed by the International Paralympic Committee. 
• Final Medal Tally: India finished with 75 Gold, 69 Silver, and 64 Bronze medals. 
• Global Standings: Russia finished second with 35 medals (15 Gold, 14 Silver, 6 Bronze), while Bosnia and Herzegovina took third place. 
• Largest Contingent: India fielded its largest-ever squad of 219 athletes. 
• Podium Sweeps: Indian athletes dominated several events, winning all three medals in categories such as the Men's Shot Put F57 (Shubham Juyal leading with gold) and the Men's 800m T53–T54. 
• Star Performers: 
  • Preeti Pal: The double Paris 2024 Paralympic medallist was the standout athlete, securing a Double Gold in the Women’s 100m and 200m (T35–T37). 
  • Sumit Antil: The reigning Paralympic champion lived up to his reputation, winning Gold in Men's Javelin Throw (F43/F44/F64) with a massive throw of 69.25 metres. 
  • Praveen Kumar: The Paralympic high jump star also secured Gold in his category. 
  • Manojkumar Sabapathi: Led a clean sweep in the Men's 800m T53–T54. 
• Growth of Parasports: The record haul highlights the success of government initiatives like the Target Olympic Podium Scheme (TOPS) and Khelo India Para Games in identifying and nurturing talent.