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PARAOLYMPICSstands forParallel Olympics
Full Form of PARAOLYMPICS
What is PARAOLYMPICS?
The Paralympics, officially known as the Paralympic Games, are a major international multi-sport event for athletes with physical, visual, and intellectual impairments. The term is derived from the Greek preposition "para" (beside or alongside) and "Olympics," signifying that the event runs parallel to the Olympic Games. In India, the Paralympics have gained increasing recognition, with the country sending its largest-ever contingent to recent editions such as Tokyo 2020 and Paris 2024. Athletes compete across a wide range of disciplines, including athletics, swimming, powerlifting, and badminton, all adapted to ensure fair competition based on impairment classifications. The Paralympics are held every two years, alternating between Summer and Winter Games, and are governed by the International Paralympic Committee (IPC). In the Indian context, Paralympic sports are promoted by the Paralympic Committee of India (PCI), which works to identify, train, and support para-athletes. The Games have become a platform for highlighting inclusion, accessibility, and the extraordinary achievements of disabled athletes. For competitive exams like UPSC and SSC, questions often appear about India’s medal tally in Paralympic editions, notable medalists like Devendra Jhajharia and Avani Lekhara, and the distinction between Paralympics and Deaflympics or Special Olympics. The Paralympics embody the spirit of resilience and demonstrate that disability is not a barrier to excellence in sports.
PARAOLYMPICS का फुल फॉर्म
समानांतर ओलंपिक
Example
India achieved its best-ever performance at the Tokyo 2020 Paralympics, winning 19 medals including five golds.
PARAOLYMPICS — frequently asked questions
What is the full form of PARAOLYMPICS?
The full form of PARAOLYMPICS is Parallel Olympics, derived from 'parallel' and 'Olympics' to represent its side-by-side relationship with the Olympic Games.
How does India perform in the Paralympics?
India has steadily improved its performance, winning a record 19 medals at Tokyo 2020, with stars like javelin thrower Devendra Jhajharia and shooter Avani Lekhara leading the way.
What is the difference between Paralympics and Special Olympics?
The Paralympics are for elite athletes with physical, visual, or intellectual impairments who meet strict qualification standards, while Special Olympics are for individuals of all ability levels with intellectual disabilities, focusing on participation and inclusion.