Preeti Pal has etched her name in Indian sports history. Overcoming cerebral palsy, societal bias, and financial hardship, the 24-year-old sprinter from Meerut has become the first Indian ever to win Paralympic track medals — and now she’s been named one of India’s official flagbearers at the IndianOil New Delhi 2025 World Para Athletics Championships.
The championships, scheduled from September 27 to October 5 at Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium, mark the largest para-athletics event India has ever hosted. Alongside Paralympic gold medalist Dharambir Singh, Preeti will lead a 73-member Indian contingent, inspiring millions with her journey of grit and glory.
From Plasters to Podiums
Born with cerebral palsy on 22 September 2000, Preeti spent her early years battling physical challenges — her legs were in plaster for six days after birth, and she wore callipers until age 13. In a small Meerut neighbourhood with scarce medical facilities, many doubted her future. But at 17, after discovering Paralympic Athletics videos on YouTube, she found her calling.
Defying odds, Preeti trained at a local stadium without proper equipment. Her move to Delhi — supported by the Sports Authority of India (SAI) and Target Olympic Podium Scheme (TOPS) — unlocked access to professional coaching, physiotherapy, and world-class training, transforming her into a world-beater.
Historic Wins at Paris 2024
Preeti made history at the Paris 2024 Paralympic Games, clinching two bronze medals in the women’s 100m and 200m T35 events, clocking personal bests of 14.21 and 30.01 seconds. Competing in the T35 classification for athletes with coordination impairments, she became India’s first Paralympic or Olympic track medalist, proving her critics wrong and elevating para-sport visibility nationwide.
A Flagbearer and a Role Model
Preeti’s appointment as flagbearer reflects not only her achievements but also her role as an icon of determination. “This journey has been about immense hard work and dedication,” she said. “I aim to strike gold and bring greater glory to India.”
/> PM with the Indian Contingent of the Paris Paralympic 2024, in New Delhi on September 12, 2024.[/caption]
The Paralympic Committee of India, led by Devendra Jhajharia, expressed confidence in the Indian squad’s potential for a strong medal tally on home soil.
Why Preeti Pal Matters
Preeti’s story is more than medals — it’s about breaking stereotypes, redefining possibilities, and sparking conversations about inclusion and equal opportunities for differently-abled athletes. Her journey from a small-town girl in callipers to a Paralympic flagbearer underscores the transformative power of access, mentorship, and systemic support.
