Greater Noida West : Praveen Kumar, a para high jump athlete from the Jewar region of Greater Noida, has emerged as one of India’s most inspiring sports figures. Rising through years of struggle, self-doubt and relentless hard work, he has brought glory to the nation on the international stage. In 2025, the Government of India honoured him with the Padma Shri, recognising his extraordinary contribution to sports.
A journey that began in 2018
Praveen’s journey in para athletics began at the end of 2018.
I never imagined the road ahead would be so long and challenging. In the early phase of my career I competed in the Junior World Para Championship, which turned out to be a major turning point.
Praveen Kumar
After this event, his classification was changed from T42 to T44, which is considered one of the toughest and highest categories in para high jump, especially at the Paralympic level. The sudden change shook him mentally.
There were moments when I felt it would not be possible anymore. I even thought of quitting sports.
Praveen
Family and coach became his strength
During his most difficult phase, Praveen found strength in his family and coach. Their support helped him rebuild confidence and focus. He trained hard for an entire year to adapt to the new category. This effort paid off in 2020, when he qualified for the Paralympics for the first time. It was the moment when hope returned and his belief in himself grew stronger.
From Silver to Gold on the world stage
In the 2021 Paralympic Games, Praveen delivered a strong performance and won a silver medal. This success proved to be a major turning point in his career. His consistency continued in the following years. In 2022, he won a bronze medal at the World Para Athletics Championship. The same year, he also performed impressively at the Asian level.
In 2023, Praveen created history by winning a gold medal at the Asian Games and setting a new Asian record. The biggest achievement came in 2024, when he won the gold medal at the Paralympic Games and broke the Asian record again. Soon after, he added another bronze medal at the World Championship, proving his sustained excellence.
From Khel Ratna to Padma Shri
Following these achievements, Praveen Kumar was honoured with the Khel Ratna Award. In 2025, he received the Padma Shri, one of the country’s highest civilian honours.
This award is very special for me, but it also reminds me that my responsibility has increased.
Praveen Kumar
Balancing education and sports
Praveen also focused on his education alongside sports. He completed his schooling up to Class 12 at Pragyan Public School in Jewar. Later, he graduated from Motilal Nehru College of Delhi University and went on to complete his master’s degree.
Managing studies and sports together was not easy, but giving up was never an option.
Praveen Kumar
Message to the youth
During the interaction, Praveen shared a clear message for young people. He said it is not necessary for everyone to choose sports as a career.
Your path can be academics, acting, dancing or any other field. What matters is identifying your true talent and giving your best to it.
Praveen
He encouraged youth to accept mistakes as part of learning and to keep moving forward without fear.
A strong voice for divyang athletes
Praveen also spoke openly about how society treats persons with disabilities. He pointed out that words like “bechara” used for a disabled child often break confidence at a very early stage.
Discrimination at schools, in society and in public spaces deeply affects divyang children and youth. Disability does not mean inability. The real problem begins when society restricts them. If a divyang child grows up among other children without being treated differently, they may never feel limited until society makes them feel so.
Praveen
Appeal for support to para sports
Praveen appealed to people to support para sports in the same way as other sports. He urged citizens to attend para sporting events and witness how Indian para athletes bring medals and pride to the country.
Eyes set on Los Angeles 2028
Looking ahead, Praveen Kumar’s next big goal is the 2028 Los Angeles Paralympics. He is also focused on the upcoming Asian Games and the World Championship next year.
My only dream is to hear the national anthem in the stadium. That is what I work for every single day.
Praveen Kumar
Praveen Kumar’s story stands as a powerful reminder that determination, self-belief and the right support can overcome any barrier.