Press Information Bureau

Harvinder Singh, born on February 25, 1991, in Kaithal, Haryana, made history at the Paris 2024 Paralympics by becoming India's first Paralympic Gold Medalist in Archery. Competing in the Men's Individual Recurve Open event, Harvinder triumphed over Poland's Lukasz Ciszek in the final, winning the match in straight sets and hitting the center of the target four times. The crowd at the iconic Invalides venue erupted in applause as Singh’s arrows struck with precision, culminating in his remarkable victory.

 

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Early Life and Archery Career

 

Harvinder’s journey in sports began in Ajit Nagar village in Haryana, where he was born into a farmer family. At the age of just one and a half, he contracted dengue, and the treatment’s side effects led to a permanent disability in his legs. Despite this early setback, Harvinder found his passion for archery after watching the London 2012 Paralympics. Motivated to pursue the sport, he made his international debut at the Para Archery World Championship in 2017, finishing 7th.

His first major breakthrough came in 2018, when he won a gold medal at the Jakarta Asian Para Games, cementing his place among India’s top para-archers. During the COVID-19 lockdown, Harvinder’s father converted their farm into an archery range, providing him with the space and support he needed to continue training.

 

The Journey to Gold

 

Harvinder’s success in Paris was not only a personal achievement but also a significant milestone for India in the sport of archery. After winning a bronze medal at the Tokyo 2020 Paralympics, Harvinder was determined to change the color of his medal! This gold medal victory marks another major step in Harvinder’s archery career, following his bronze medal win at the Asian Para Games in 2022 and a silver medal at the 2023 Asian Para Championship in the Men’s Team event.

Harvinder’s achievements in archery are complemented by his academic pursuits. He is currently working towards a Ph.D. in Economics at Punjabi University, Patiala, reflecting his dedication both on and off the field.

 

Government Support and Training

 

Harvinder’s success has been supported by key government initiatives, including financial assistance for equipment, training, and competition expenses. He trains at the Sports Authority of India (SAI) center in Sonipat, where he receives full support, including boarding and lodging. He is also a beneficiary of the Target Olympic Podium Scheme (TOPS), which provides him with additional financial assistance to meet his needs during competitions.

 

Forever stitched in time!

 

Harvinder Singh's historic victory at the Paris 2024 Paralympics is a momentous achievement for Indian para-archery. From his humble beginnings to becoming India’s first Paralympic gold medalist in archery, Harvinder’s journey is an inspiring example of how hard work, talent, and determination can lead to success on the global stage.

As he continues to pursue excellence in both his sport and his academic career, Harvinder remains a beacon of inspiration for aspiring athletes across the country.

 

Referenceshttps://www.paralympic.org/paris-2024/feature/paris-2024-harvinder-singh-wins-india-s-first-ever-para-archery-gold

https://pib.gov.in/PressReleaseIframePage.aspx?PRID=2052005

INDIAN ATHLETES: PARIS PARALYMPICS 2024 pdf

 

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Santosh Kumar/ Sheetal Angral /Madiha Iqbal

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