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Haryana Dominates National Para-Athletics with 95 Medals; Odisha to Host 2028 World Event

Haryana emerged as the overall champion at the 24th National Para-Athletics Championships in Bhubaneswar, securing a total of 95 medals including 39 gold. Tamil Nadu and Gujarat finished second and third, respectively, while host Odisha placed fifth, aided by strong performances from local athletes. Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi used the event to reaffirm the state's status as India's sports capital and announce major infrastructure commitments. He confirmed that Bhubaneswar has been selected to host the prestigious World Athletics Indoor Championships in 2028, a first for India.

Key Points: Haryana Tops National Para-Athletics, Odisha to Host World Championships

  • Haryana champion with 95 medals
  • Tamil Nadu runner-up
  • Odisha to host 2028 World Athletics Indoor Championships
  • CM Majhi reaffirms sports capital status
  • Over 1,400 athletes competed
2 min read

24th National Para-Athletics Championships: Haryana tops with 95 medals, including 39 gold

Haryana wins 95 medals at National Para-Athletics Championships. Odisha CM announces Bhubaneswar will host the 2028 World Athletics Indoor Championships.

"Odisha has arrived on the global stage. We are ready to showcase our organisational prowess and Indian hospitality to the world in 2028. - CM Mohan Charan Majhi"

Bhubaneswar, March 21

The 24th National Para-Athletics Championships 2026 concluded at the iconic Kalinga Stadium in Bhubaneswar here on Saturday.

The closing ceremony was graced by Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi and Minister for Sports & Youth Services, Suryabanshi Suraj, who honoured the top-performing states for their remarkable achievements.

After four days of intense competition involving over 1,400 athletes, Haryana emerged as the overall champion, dominating the medal tally with 95 medals, including 39 gold.

Tamil Nadu finished as runner-ups with 51 medals, whereas Gujarat came third with 30 medals.

Host Odisha finished a respectable 5th overall, significantly boosted by gold and silver medal performances from star athletes, Suchitra Parida, Jayanti Behera and Janaki Oram.

During his address, Chief Minister Majhi reaffirmed Odisha's position as the "Sports Capital of India" with several major declarations. The CM guaranteed that the Kalinga Stadium complex will continue to expand, ensuring all types of advanced sports infrastructure are available for para-athletes and general athletes alike.

He stated that the Odisha government is fully prepared to provide 360-degree support to host any national or international sporting event.

The CM also confirmed that Bhubaneswar will host the World Athletics Indoor Championships in 2028. This marks the first time India will ever host a global track and field championship.

"Odisha has arrived on the global stage. We are ready to showcase our organisational prowess and Indian hospitality to the world in 2028," said CM Majhi.

The World Athletics Council selected Odisha in India and Astana in Kazakhstan to host the World Athletics Indoor Championships in 2028 and 2030, respectively, during the two-day meeting on Wednesday and Thursday (18-19 March).

The events were awarded during the 240th World Athletics Council Meeting held in Torun, Poland, ahead of the World Athletics Indoor Championships Kujawy Pomorze 26.

The awarding of the 2028 World Athletics Race Walking Team Championships to Hefei in China was also among the decisions made during the meet.

- ANI

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Reader Comments

P
Priya S
So proud of our Odisha athletes! Suchitra, Jayanti, and Janaki did us proud. Finishing 5th as hosts is a great achievement. The CM's announcements are promising, but I hope the infrastructure promises are followed through, especially for para-athletes who often face accessibility issues.
R
Rohit P
Wah! 95 medals for Haryana is domination. But let's also appreciate Tamil Nadu and Gujarat's performance. The real winner is the spirit of these athletes. Bhai, 2028 World Championships in Bhubaneswar? That's going to be epic. Time to put India on the global sports map properly.
S
Sarah B
This is wonderful news. The focus on para-athletics is so important for inclusivity in sports. Hosting a world championship is a massive opportunity. I just hope the planning starts now and everything is accessible for all athletes and spectators. Fingers crossed for a successful event!
V
Vikram M
Great to see such a high level of competition. However, I wish the article gave more details about the athletes' individual stories and events. The medal count is one thing, but the human effort behind it is what matters most. More coverage on that, please.
K
Karthik V
Odisha as the sports capital? They are certainly making a strong case with these consistent investments and events. Hosting a world championship is a big responsibility. Hope the focus remains on athlete welfare and not just on building stadiums. Jai Hind to all the champions! 🇮🇳

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