Daijiworld Media Network - New Delhi

New Delhi, Jun 15: A 16-strong Indian para powerlifting squad will head to Beijing for the 2025 Para Powerlifting World Cup, taking place from June 17 to 25. The athletes were farewelled at a spirited send-off at the National Sports Club of India in New Delhi, where para-sporting dignitaries and supporters gathered to cheer them on.

Ranjit Kumar, IRS and Additional Directorate General of PR, served as chief guest and spoke movingly of the athletes’ grit. “Witnessing their strength and resolve was both humbling and inspiring,” he said, wishing them success in Beijing and beyond. Dr. Deepa Malik, South-East Asia member of the Asian Paralympic Committee, and Jayawant Hamnnavar, Secretary General of the Paralympic Committee of India, also conveyed their encouragement, urging the team to aim high.

JP Singh, Chairman of India Para Powerlifting, highlighted the nation’s rising profile in the sport and praised the contingent’s preparation. He noted with optimism that nearly half the team—seven of the sixteen—are women, signaling a bright future for para powerlifting in India. Among those representing the country are standout performers from the national championships such as Zainab Khatun, Seema Rani, Jhandu Kumar, Joby Mathew, Manish Kumar, and Kasthuri, all seen as medal contenders.

As the team departs for Beijing, the country rallies behind them, hopeful that their dedication and hard work will translate into podium finishes and inspire further growth of para powerlifting at home.