In the men's shot put F46 category at the Paralympic Games, Sachin Khilari from India clinched a silver medal with an impressive throw of 16.32 meters on Wednesday. This performance set a new Asian record, showcasing his exceptional skills and continuing India's impressive medal streak.

Khilari's throw of 16.30 meters was a personal best, but it wasn't quite enough to secure the gold. Canadian athlete Greg Stewart won first place with a throw of 16.38 meters, while Luka Bakovic from Croatia took the bronze with 16.27 meters. Despite not winning gold, Khilari's remarkable achievement highlights his competitive edge at the highest level.

India's medal tally now stands at 21, including three gold medals. Wednesday’s event at Stade de France was a turnaround for Stewart, who had previously lost to Khilari at the World Para-Athletics Championships in Kobe in May. The F46 classification includes athletes with arm deficiencies, reduced muscle power, or limited range of motion.

Reflecting on his performance, Khilari expressed disappointment, saying, "I hoped to win gold, but despite this being my best distance, I’m not fully satisfied. I believe I could have performed better. Greg Stewart is a great competitor, and I made a few technical errors. I will work harder and aim to beat him next time."

Indian competitors Mohd Yasser (14.21 meters) and Rohit Kumar (14.10 meters) finished in eighth and ninth places, respectively.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi congratulated Khilari for his silver medal, praising his strength and determination. "Congratulations to Sachin Khilari for his incredible achievement at the #Paralympics2024! India is proud of him," the Prime Minister posted on social media.

Khilari's journey is a testament to his resilience. Hailing from Karagani village in Maharashtra and overcoming significant challenges, including a severe accident and the loss of his mother, Khilari's story is truly inspiring. Despite these obstacles, he has excelled in para-athletics, thanks in part to the support of his coach, Satayanarayana, and his dedication to education as a visiting faculty member. His commitment to both sports and education exemplifies his dedication to personal growth and community support.

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