The Khelo India Para Games 2023 concluded on December 17 in New Delhi, showcasing the remarkable talents of para athletes from across the country. The inaugural edition of the event saw Haryana clinched the top spot, securing a total of 105 medals, including 40 gold, 39 silver and 26 bronze. The competition, which began on December 10, featured around 1,450 para athletes representing 32 states and Union Territories.
Haryana Clinches Inaugural Title
In a spectacular display of skill and determination, Haryana emerged as the overall winner of Khelo India Para Games 2023. The state’s athletes secured an impressive medal haul, with 40 gold, 39 silver and 26 bronze medals. Among the standout performances was Pranav Soorma’s exceptional achievement in the club throw event, where he not only won gold but also set a new Asian record with an impressive throw of 33.54 meters.
Top Contenders
Uttar Pradesh claimed the second position in the medal tally, bagging a total of 62 medals. The state’s para athletes demonstrated their prowess with 25 gold, 23 silver and 14 bronze medals. Tamil Nadu secured the third spot, showcasing commendable performances and earning a total of 20 gold, eight silver and 14 bronze medals.
Historic Moments and Records
Khelo India Para Games 2023 witnessed historic moments and record-breaking performances. Pranav Soorma’s feat in the club throw event, surpassing his own Asian Para Games gold medal-winning performance, stood out as a testament to the exceptional talent on display. The event celebrated not only the medals but also the resilient spirits and untold stories of para athletes, marking a historic chapter in India’s sports history.
Government’s Khelo India Initiative
Khelo India Para Games 2023 is the latest edition to the Government of India’s Khelo India Initiative, which aims to nurture the sporting culture in the country at the grassroots level. The initiative includes various sporting events such as Khelo India Youth Games, Khelo India University Games and Khelo India Winter Games. The success of the program, running since 2017, reflects its widespread acceptance and support from every corner of the country.
Medal Events and Facilities
The medal events at KIPG 2023 spanned across seven sports – para athletes, para archery, para football, para badminton, para table tennis and para weightlifting (powerlifting). These events took place at three different Sports Authority of India (SAI) facilities – the Indira Gandhi Stadium, Shooting Range in Tughlakabaad and the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium. The diverse range of sports showcased the inclusivity and diversity of para sports in India.
Important Questions Related to Exams
Q1. Who emerged as the overall winner of Khelo India Para Games 2023?
Sol. Haryana clinched the top spot, securing 105 medals, including 40 gold, 39 silver and 26 bronze.
Q2. What Asian record did Pranav Soorma set during the event?
Sol. Pranav Soorma set a new Asian record in the club throw event with an impressive throw of 33.54 meters.
Q3. Which state claimed the second position in the medal tally?
Sol. Uttar Pradesh secured the second position with a total of 62 medals, including 25 gold, 23 silver and 14 bronze.