Double track medalist Preethi Pal and gold medalist archer Harvinder Singh were named as the Indian flag bearers for the closing ceremony of the 2024 Paris Paralympics.
Chef-de-mission Satya Prakash Sangwan announced it on Friday.
This announcement comes as India celebrates a record-breaking performance, securing an unprecedented 26 medals, including 6 gold, 9 silver, and 11 bronze.
Harvinder created history in Para Archery with a gold medal in the men’s recurve while Preethi Pal became the first-ever Indian to win track medals at the Paralympics.
Preethi won two bronze medals in the 100 and 200m T35 category making her the only Para-Athlete to win two medals in the event.
Talking about the announcement, Harvinder Singh said, “Winning gold for India has been a dream come true, and now leading our nation as a flag bearer at the Closing Ceremony is the highest honor I could imagine. This victory is for everyone who believed in me, and I hope to inspire many more to pursue their dreams.”
“It is a great honor to represent India as a flag bearer. This moment is not just about me; it’s about every para-athlete who has pushed their limits to make our nation proud. I am thrilled to be leading our incredible team at the Closing Ceremony,” Preethi quipped about her appointment as the flag bearer.
India crossed the 19 medal tally from the Tokyo Paralympics and has won a total of 26 medals.