Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday extended his “heartiest congratulations” to the Indian contingent that clinched a record‑breaking 20 medals — nine gold, seven silver and four bronze — at the 25th Summer Deaflympics in Tokyo, marking the country’s best ever performance at the Games.
In a post on his official X handle, Modi said, “Heartiest congratulations to our Deaflympians for their extraordinary performance at the 25th Summer Deaflympics 2025 in Tokyo. With a historic best‑ever medal tally of 20 medals, including 9 Golds, our athletes have once again proven that determination and dedication can lead to outstanding results. Compliments to every athlete, coach, and support staff. The entire nation is proud of you all!”
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The Indian delegation, the largest ever sent to the Deaflympics with 73 athletes across 11 sports, finished sixth on the medal table — a first‑time achievement for the nation in the competition’s history. Shooting dominated India’s medal haul, contributing 16 of the 20 medals, including seven golds. Notable gold medalists were wrestler Sumit Dahiya (97 kg men’s freestyle), golfer Diksha Dagar (women’s individual), and shooter Dhanush Srikanth, who set a Deaf final world record in the men’s 10 m air rifle.
PM Modi reiterated the pride felt across the country. “I will never forget the interaction with our champions who have brought pride and glory for India at the Deaflympics… Your passion and determination inspire our youth,” he tweeted, echoing sentiments shared during the meet‑up with athletes, coaches, and officials.
The Prime Minister’s message underscores the broader significance of the achievement. “When a divyang excels on the international stage, it reverberates beyond sport — it showcases the country’s culture of inclusion and sensitivity,” he had said during an interaction with the team.
India’s sixth‑place finish at the Deaflympics is expected to galvanise further investment in deaf athletics and inspire future generations of athletes with hearing impairments across the country.
AloJapan.com