The IndianOil New Delhi 2025 World Para Athletics Championships (WPAC) kicked off at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium on Thursday evening, marking a historic moment for Indian sports. India is the fourth Asian nation to host the event, after Qatar (2015), UAE (2019), and Japan (2024). The Paralympics Committee of India is organizing the event, which will run until October 5 and feature over 2,200 participants from 104 nations.
In a message delivered at the opening ceremony, Prime Minister Narendra Modi conveyed his pride in India hosting the World Para Athletics Championships for the first time. He emphasized that this event reaffirms India's growing recognition as a sporting and inclusive nation.
PM Modi highlighted the unifying power of sports, noting its ability to connect people across religions, regions, and nationalities. He expressed confidence that the WPAC 2025 would have a positive impact on all participants.
The Prime Minister lauded the remarkable performances of para-athletes, recognizing their role in redefining resilience and determination and inspiring individuals worldwide to believe that no challenge is insurmountable. He acknowledged that para-athletes have played a vital role in strengthening India's identity as a rising sporting hub, motivating millions to embrace sports as a way of life.
Union Minister for Youth Affairs and Sports, Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya, officially declared the WPAC 2025 open. He also expressed his belief that India has emerged as a trusted destination for hosting major international sporting events under PM Modi's leadership. Dr. Mandaviya, along with Minister of State for Sports and Youth Affairs, Smt. Raksha Khadse, had previously reviewed the final preparations for the event at the JLN Stadium.
The opening ceremony showcased India's cultural diversity with a vibrant display. The event included an athletes' parade and a cultural performance featuring a Delhi-based dance group comprised of hearing-impaired artists, as well as Bhangra and Manipuri dance forms.
Team India will be represented by a record 74 athletes at the competition. Sports Secretary Hari Ranjan Rao read out PM Modi's message during the ceremony.
