Paralympic high jump champion Praveen Kumar is elated to receive the prestigious Major Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna Award, a recognition he attributes to the growing prominence of para-sports in India under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership. Kumar, who recently clinched gold in the men’s high jump T64 category at the Paris 2024 Paralympics, also set a new Asian record with his winning jump of 2.08 meters.
This remarkable achievement follows his silver medal at the Tokyo 2020 Paralympics, where he had already set an Asian record with a jump of 2.07 meters. Reflecting on his honor, Kumar expressed his gratitude, saying, “Under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s guidance, para-sports are receiving much-needed recognition. I feel honoured to be named a Khel Ratna awardee. I will continue to give my best in major tournaments to bring more laurels to the nation.”
Kumar’s achievements highlight not only his personal excellence but also the growing support and recognition for para-athletes in India, inspiring future generations to reach greater heights in the world of sports.
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