In Glasgow, Sharmila Dhankar made history as India’s first gold medallist in para-athletics at the Commonwealth Games. Additionally, high jumper Sarvesh Kushare, along with weightlifters Valluri Ajaya Babu and Gyaneshwari Yadav, each secured a silver medal. This marked a successful day for the Indian contingent in the prestigious multi-sport event.
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Sharmila achieved a historic milestone by clinching the women’s shot put F57 title with a season-best throw of 9.81 meters, making her the first Indian to win a gold medal in para-athletics at the Games late Monday night.
Her victory marks the end of a two-decade wait for India for a para-athletics medal at the Commonwealth Games. The prior medal was secured by Ranjith Kumar Jayaseelan in the men’s seated discus throw during the 2006 Games.
The F57 classification caters to athletes with lower limb impairments, limb deficiencies, or diminished muscle power.
Shortly after Sharmila’s historic win, national record holder Kushare made headlines by becoming the first Indian to earn a silver medal in men’s high jump at the Games.
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India’s weightlifting team remained a prominent force in the medal tally, with 21-year-old Valluri Ajaya Babu earning a silver medal in the men’s 79kg division. He showcased remarkable skill in a fierce competition against Malaysia’s Erry Hidayat Muhammad.
