Paralympic gold medallist Praveen Kumar honoured with Padma Shri
The world of Indian sports has been abuzz with excitement as Praveen Kumar, the 22-year-old high jumper who bagged gold in the men’s high jump – T64 event at the Paris Paralympics, has been conferred with the prestigious Padma Shri award. This honour, which is the fourth-highest civilian award of India, is a testament to Praveen’s dedication, hard work, and outstanding achievement in the field of sports.
Praveen’s journey to the top has been nothing short of inspiring. Despite facing numerous challenges and obstacles, he has consistently pushed himself to excel in his sport, and his efforts have finally paid off. The gold medal he won at the Paris Paralympics is a proud moment not just for him, but for the entire nation. His achievement has brought joy and pride to millions of Indians, and has inspired a new generation of athletes to pursue their dreams with passion and determination.
Reacting to the news of being conferred with the Padma Shri, Praveen said, “I’m getting a lot of love from the nation due to sports…This motivates me to perform better in the upcoming games and clinch a gold medal for the nation.” These words reflect the humility and gratitude that define Praveen’s personality, and demonstrate his commitment to continuing to strive for excellence in his sport.
The Padma Shri award is a significant recognition of Praveen’s achievements, and is a testament to the impact he has had on the world of sports. It is also a reflection of the growing recognition and appreciation of para-athletes in India, who have consistently demonstrated their prowess and talent on the international stage. Praveen’s award is a proud moment for the Indian sports fraternity, and is a reminder of the immense potential and talent that exists in the country.
Praveen’s story is also a shining example of the power of sports to transform lives and inspire others. His journey from a small town to the international stage is a testament to the impact that sports can have on individuals and communities. It also highlights the importance of providing opportunities and support to talented athletes, and the need to create a conducive environment that allows them to flourish and reach their full potential.
The Indian government has been taking several initiatives to promote sports and support athletes, including para-athletes. The establishment of the Sports Authority of India, the introduction of the Target Olympic Podium Scheme, and the creation of the National Sports Federation are just a few examples of the efforts being made to promote sports and support athletes. These initiatives have started to bear fruit, with Indian athletes, including para-athletes, consistently performing well on the international stage.
Praveen’s achievement is also a reminder of the importance of inclusivity and accessibility in sports. The fact that he has been able to excel in his sport despite facing physical challenges is a testament to his determination and resilience. It also highlights the need to create a more inclusive and accessible environment for athletes with disabilities, and to provide them with the support and resources they need to succeed.
In conclusion, Praveen Kumar’s conferment with the Padma Shri award is a proud moment for India, and a testament to his outstanding achievement in the field of sports. His story is an inspiration to millions, and a reminder of the power of sports to transform lives and inspire others. As he continues to strive for excellence in his sport, we wish him all the best and look forward to seeing him bring more glory to the nation.
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