Praveen Kumar sets a new Asian Para Games record with a 2.05-metre jump to win his second consecutive gold medal in the men’s high jump T64 event, while Bunti secures silver with a personal-best jump of 1.92 metres.
RAIPUR, (Economy India): India celebrated a double podium finish at the Asian Para Games 2026 as Praveen Kumar won the gold medal and Bunti secured silver in the men’s high jump T64 event, bringing further glory to the country on the international sporting stage.
Chhattisgarh Finance Minister O P Choudhary congratulated both athletes on their outstanding performances, praising their determination, discipline and commitment to excellence.
Praveen Kumar delivered a record-breaking performance, clearing 2.05 metres to establish a new Asian Para Games record and win the gold medal for the second consecutive time. Bunti complemented India’s success by claiming silver with his best jump of 1.92 metres.
The twin-medal achievement highlighted the growing strength of Indian para-athletics and brought pride to the country.
Praveen Kumar Sets Games Record with 2.05-Metre Jump
Praveen Kumar produced an outstanding performance in the men’s high jump T64 competition, clearing 2.05 metres to secure the gold medal.
According to the Chhattisgarh government release, the athlete, who is associated with the Target Olympic Podium Scheme (TOPS), also established a new Games record with his winning jump.
The victory marked Praveen’s second consecutive gold medal in the event at the Asian Para Games, underlining his consistency and continued excellence in international competition.
His performance further strengthened India’s presence in para-athletics and demonstrated the impact of sustained preparation and competitive experience.
Bunti Wins Silver with Personal-Best Jump
Bunti added to India’s medal tally by winning the silver medal in the same event with a jump of 1.92 metres, his best performance.
The double podium finish gave India both the gold and silver medals in the men’s high jump T64 event.
The achievement reflected the competitive strength of Indian para-athletes and their ability to deliver exceptional performances at major international sporting events.
O P Choudhary Congratulates Both Athletes
Chhattisgarh Finance Minister O P Choudhary extended his congratulations and best wishes to Praveen Kumar and Bunti for their achievements.
Choudhary said their success was the result of hard work, discipline, courage and determination. He noted that the athletes had demonstrated how strong willpower and consistent effort could help individuals reach new heights.
He also described their performances as an inspiration for millions of young people, particularly athletes with disabilities who aspire to compete at national and international levels.
Indian Para-Athletics Gains Further Recognition
The gold and silver medals added another proud chapter to India’s para-sports journey.
Praveen Kumar’s consecutive gold-medal victories, combined with Bunti’s silver-medal performance, highlighted the growing depth of talent in Indian para-athletics.
The achievement also reinforced the importance of supporting athletes through structured training, competitive opportunities and sports development initiatives.
Praveen’s association with the Target Olympic Podium Scheme was highlighted in the state government’s announcement as part of the recognition of his achievement.
Athletes Receive Best Wishes for Future Competitions
Choudhary wished both athletes continued success in their sporting careers and expressed confidence that they would maintain their strong performances in upcoming national and international competitions.
Their double podium finish at the Asian Para Games 2026 stands as a significant achievement for Indian para-athletics, celebrating sporting excellence, perseverance and the determination to overcome challenges.
With Praveen Kumar winning gold and Bunti taking silver, India added another memorable moment to its campaign at the continental para-sporting event.
(Economy India)
