PM inaugurates World Para Athletics Championships in Delhi

Prime Minister Narendra Modi today inaugurated the World Para Athletics Championships 2025 at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium in Delhi, marking the first time India is hosting the prestigious global para-sporting event.

More than 1,100 athletes from over 100 countries will compete over the next nine days , across 186 medal events in track and field disciplines. The tournament, held biennially, is considered the biggest para-athletics competition outside of the Paralympic Games.

Welcoming participants, the Prime Minister said the championship is a celebration of “human determination and spirit,” expressing hope that it will inspire a more inclusive sporting culture worldwide.

India has fielded a strong contingent of around 70 athletes , while major delegations from countries including the USA, China, Brazil, and Great Britain are also in attendance.

The previous edition, delayed due to the pandemic, was staged in Kobe, Japan, in 2024. Delhi was awarded hosting rights earlier this year, making this only the fourth time Asia has hosted the event after Doha (2015), Dubai (2019), and Kobe (2024).

The championships run until October 5 , with morning and evening sessions each day.