Satya Prakash Sangwan
, the vice-president of the Paralympic Committee of India (PCI), has been appointed as the Indian contingent's
Chef de Mission
for the upcoming
Paris Paralympics
and has expressed optimism about the team's performance, stating that the athletes are expected to bring home at least 8 to 10 gold medals.
Following the conclusion of the Paris Olympics, the sporting world will shift its focus to the Paralympics, set to commence on August 28.
With over ten years of unwavering commitment and valuable experience within the Paralympic movement, Sangwan is well-equipped to guide and support the Indian athletes in their pursuit of excellence on the international stage.
"This day is a historic one for me. I have been chosen as the Chef de Mission for the Indian contingent at the Paris Paralympics. I will fulfil this duty with great responsibility. I am thankful to PCI and the central government for considering me capable for this job," Sangwan told ANI.
India's medals tally at the
Paralympics
jumped from four medals in 2016 to a massive 19 at the Tokyo Paralympics.
"We are expecting at least 25-30 medals this time and 8 to 10 gold medals. It would be a matter of pride for us. Athletes have prepared really well. Whatever they needed was provided to them. We hope they will make our country proud at global stage. We sent our athletes outside for their training, held camps all over the country. The preparation has been nice," said Sangwan.
Sangwan expressed his gratitude towards PCI chief coach Satyanarayana for his invaluable contributions to the athletes' training and development.
As the Chef de Mission, Sangwan will spearhead India's record-breaking contingent of 84 para-athletes, who will participate across 12 different sports disciplines. Sangwan's role will be crucial in ensuring that the Indian team receives the necessary support and guidance to achieve success on the international stage.
The Chef de Mission position encompasses a wide range of responsibilities, demanding strong leadership skills, the ability to mentor and guide athletes and effective strategic planning capabilities. Sangwan will be tasked with overseeing the smooth functioning of the national delegation, creating a positive and supportive team environment, and motivating the athletes to deliver their best performances during the competition