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India's Sheetal Devi and Rakesh Kumar have etched their names in Paralympic history by securing a bronze medal in the mixed team compound archery competition at the Tokyo Paralympics. The duo's triumph marks India's second archery medal at the Paralympics, following Harvinder Singh's bronze in Tokyo 2020.The Indian pair faced a heart-wrenching defeat in the semifinals against Iran's Fatemeh Hemmati and Hadi Nori, losing in a dramatic shoot-off. However, they displayed remarkable resilience and determination in the bronze medal match against Italy's Eleonora Sarti and Matteo Bonacina.With just four arrows remaining, India trailed by a single point. Sarti showcased exceptional form, while Bonacina faced some challenges. However, Sheetal's 17-year-old shot was upgraded upon revision, giving India a crucial advantage.The Indian duo held their nerve and emerged victorious with a narrow 156-155 margin. Sheetal's composure and Rakesh's experience proved invaluable in securing the bronze medal.India's success in archery at the Paralympics is a testament to the growing strength and talent of the country's para-athletes. The bronze medal won by Sheetal and Rakesh is a source of pride and inspiration for the entire nation.

Indian shooters Nihal Singh and Amir Ahmad Bhat narrowly missed out on qualifying for the final of the mixed 25m pistol (SH1) competition at the Paralympics in Tokyo on Monday. Singh finished 10th with a score of 569, while Bhat placed 11th with 568, falling short of the top eight who advanced to the medal round.In the precision stage, Singh impressed with a score of 287, placing him fourth. Bhat also performed well, scoring 286 to hold the eighth and final qualifying spot. However, both shooters struggled in the rapid stage, managing only 282 each. This resulted in aggregate scores that were insufficient to secure a place in the final.The SH1 classification in shooting allows athletes to hold their gun without difficulty and shoot from a standing or sitting position. They can use either a pistol or a rifle.This was the second consecutive day without a medal for the Indian shooting team at the Paralympics. In the first three days of competition, the team had secured four podium finishes, including a gold medal.Despite the disappointment, Singh and Bhat displayed commendable consistency in the qualification round. They will be hoping to improve their performance in future events and contribute to India's medal tally at the Paralympics.

Rohan Sejwal, a young basketball prodigy from Bhopal, has overcome adversity to earn a spot on India's squad for the upcoming Junior Asian Basketball Championship in Jordan.Growing up in a humble background, Rohan's father, Sunil Sejwal, works as an auto driver. Despite financial constraints, Rohan's passion for basketball ignited at the tender age of 10.In 2020, Rohan's talent was recognized when he was selected for the NBA Junior program. He has since participated in numerous national competitions and Khelo India sports events, representing Madhya Pradesh in the Under 14 and Under 17 categories.Rohan's journey to the national team has been marked by hard work and determination. He has faced countless challenges, but his unwavering spirit has propelled him forward.The Junior Asian Basketball Championship will be held from September 2 to 9 in Jordan. India's team, which includes 12 talented young players, will be led by Rohan Sejwal.Rohan's selection is a testament to his exceptional skills and the power of perseverance. He is an inspiration to aspiring athletes everywhere, proving that with hard work and dedication, anything is possible.

India's para athletics team is poised to make a strong showing at the upcoming Paralympics in Paris, with head coach Satyanarayana expressing confidence in securing 10 medals, including five golds. The team of 84 athletes, the largest contingent India has ever sent to the Paralympics, has undergone rigorous training in preparation for the event.Satyanarayana emphasized the team's goal of converting silver and bronze medals from the Tokyo Paralympics into gold this time around. He praised the athletes' dedication and noted that many have already arrived in Paris to acclimatize and continue their training.Among the athletes expected to excel are Sumit Antil, the reigning world record holder in men's javelin F64; Mariyappan Thangavelu, the 2016 Paralympic gold medalist in men's high jump T42; and Deepthi Jeevanji, the 2019 World Para Athletics Championships bronze medalist in women's 400m T20.Other medal contenders include Sachin Khilari (men's shotput F46), Ekta Bhyan (women's club throw F52), and Simran Sharma (women's 200m T12).In the Tokyo Paralympics, India finished 24th in the overall medal tally with 19 medals, including five golds, eight silvers, and six bronzes. In athletics, the team won eight medals, including one gold, five silvers, and two bronzes.The Indian para athletics team is determined to surpass their previous performance and make history at the Paris Paralympics. With their intense training and unwavering determination, they aim to bring glory to India and inspire countless others.

President Droupadi Murmu's unwavering support for India's bid to host the 2036 Olympics stems from her belief in its transformative power. She envisions the Games as a catalyst for inspiring the nation, fostering meritocracy in sports, and showcasing India's rich sporting heritage.Murmu's passion for sports is evident in her admiration for indigenous games like kabaddi. She believes that these traditional sports embody the spirit of India and deserve recognition on the global stage. Her own experiences playing badminton with Olympic medalist Saina Nehwal further underscore her commitment to promoting sports at all levels.The President's endorsement of the Olympic bid aligns with Prime Minister Narendra Modi's vision of India as a sporting powerhouse. Modi has expressed confidence in the country's ability to host the prestigious event, recognizing its potential to elevate India's sporting landscape.Murmu's support extends beyond mere words. She has actively participated in promoting sports, including flagging off the trophy tour for the Durand Cup, Asia's oldest football tournament. These gestures demonstrate her commitment to fostering a vibrant sporting culture in India.The President's vision for the Olympics is not merely about hosting a global event but about creating a lasting legacy. She believes that the Games can inspire future generations of athletes, promote inclusivity, and showcase India's sporting prowess to the world.As the International Olympic Committee prepares to initiate the bidding process, India's bid faces competition from countries like Poland, Mexico, Indonesia, Qatar, and Saudi Arabia. However, Murmu's unwavering support and the government's commitment to developing sports infrastructure and talent provide India with a strong foundation for its Olympic aspirations.

India and Poland, separated by vast geographical distances, have forged an unexpected bond through the captivating sport of kabaddi. This ancient Indian game has captivated Polish youth, leading to remarkable achievements and a shared passion between the two nations.Prime Minister Narendra Modi, during his official visit to Poland, highlighted the "kabaddi connection" between the countries. He acknowledged Poland's success in the sport, including their European Championship titles and representation at the Kabaddi World Cups.To further strengthen this connection, PM Modi met with the captains of Poland's men's and women's kabaddi teams. The sport's popularity in Poland stems from its resemblance to European games like tag and wrestling.The introduction of kabaddi in Poland is attributed to Abhishek Sharma, an Indian who moved to the country in 2007. With the support of the International Kabaddi Federation, Sharma launched the "Kabaddi Project" in 2010. Through his unwavering dedication and financial investment, he has played a pivotal role in popularizing the sport.Poland's men's national team made a remarkable debut at the 2016 Kabaddi World Cup in India, defeating the reigning champions Iran. This achievement showcased the growing potential of kabaddi in Poland.The current visit by Prime Minister Modi is expected to further enhance the kabaddi connection between India and Poland. This shared passion for the sport has fostered a unique bond between the two countries, transcending geographical barriers and uniting them through the thrill and camaraderie of kabaddi.

India's Ronak Dahiya has etched his name in the annals of wrestling history by securing a bronze medal in the 110 kg Greco-Roman category at the ongoing U17 World Wrestling Championship in Amman, Jordan. This triumph marks India's first medal at the championship.Dahiya, who is currently ranked second in the world in his age-group weight category, showcased his exceptional skills in the bronze medal play-off. He effortlessly defeated Turkey's Emrullah Capkan by a comfortable margin of 6-1, securing India's first medal from the championship on Tuesday.Dahiya's journey to the podium was not without its challenges. In the semi-final, he faced a formidable opponent in Zoltan Czako of Hungary, who eventually claimed the silver medal. However, Dahiya's determination and resilience shone through as he fought valiantly against Czako.The gold medal in the 110 kg category was won by Ukraine's Ivan Yankovskyi, who displayed technical superiority in his 13-4 victory over Czako.India's medal tally at the championship could potentially increase with Sainath Pardhi's participation in the 51 kg repechage. Pardhi has the opportunity to secure a second medal for India if he emerges victorious in two bouts. He will first face Dominic Michael Munaretto of the United States, and if successful, he will advance to the bronze medal play-off for repechage against the winner of the bout between Armenian Sargis Harutyunan and Iuri Chapidze of Georgia.Dahiya's bronze medal is a testament to his hard work, dedication, and unwavering spirit. It is a proud moment for India and a significant achievement for the young wrestler.

Aman Sehrawat's journey to Olympic glory is a testament to his resilience and unwavering determination. Hailing from humble beginnings, the 21-year-old wrestler overcame adversity to become India's youngest Olympic medalist.Growing up in a financially challenged household, Aman's parents passed away when he was young. His uncle took him and his sister under his care, but life remained difficult. Undeterred, Aman found solace in wrestling at the Chhatrasal Stadium.His rise to prominence was meteoric. Within two years, he became the country's first U23 world champion and secured an Olympic berth by defeating his idol, Ravi Dahiya. However, as the Paris Games approached, nerves crept in.On the day of his competition, Aman faced immense pressure. He knew the eyes of his nation were upon him. But he drew strength from his past struggles and focused on the task at hand.In his first bout, he comfortably defeated Vladimir Egorovy. However, his next opponent was the formidable Zelimkhan Abakarov, who had beaten him at the world championships. Determined to prove himself, Aman devised a strategy to keep the bout close.His plan worked. He upset Abakarov 12-0, setting up a semi-final clash with Japan's Rei Higuchi. Despite a strong start, Aman lost focus and was defeated.Undeterred, he shed 3.5kg overnight to make weight for the bronze medal bout. With a clear mind, he approached the match as just another competition. He dominated Puerto Rico's Darian Toi Cruz 13-5 to secure a podium finish.Upon his return to India, Aman was greeted as a hero. His village, academy, and fans celebrated his achievement. He realized the true magnitude of his accomplishment and the joy it brought to his community.Aman's success is a reminder that even in the face of adversity, dreams can be realized through hard work and perseverance. His journey inspires countless young athletes to strive for greatness and to never give up on their aspirations.

India's Paralympic Contingent Boosted by Corporate SupportThe Paralympic Committee of India (PCI) is sending its largest-ever contingent to the Paralympics, with 84 athletes competing in 12 sports. This is a testament to the growing support for para-athletes in India, with many corporates stepping in to assist the players.PCI president Devendra Jhajharia expressed his appreciation for the increasing support during the send-off ceremony. "I would like to thank the Government of India, sponsors, and the corporates who have come together to support our athletes," Jhajharia said.One of the key supporters is Shrachi Group, which has reaffirmed its commitment to supporting para-athletes through a partnership with the PCI. Shrachi Group Executive Director Poonam Tharar said, "Our vision is to give support to the para-athletes which they deserve. Shrachi Sports wanted to make sure that the message reaches the masses, para athletes get the required support."The support from corporates has given a huge boost to the morale of the athletes. Jhajharia said, "The support given to para-athletes in recent times has given a huge boost to the morale of the athletes."The Paralympics will commence on August 28 and promise to showcase the exceptional talents and dedication of India's para-athletes. The contingent will compete in archery, athletics, badminton, canoeing, cycling, blind judo, powerlifting, rowing, shooting, swimming, table tennis, and taekwondo.