India’s armless archer, Sheetal Devi, narrowly missed setting a new world record in the women's individual compound competition at the Paris Paralympics on Thursday. Sheetal, scoring a personal best of 703 points, initially broke the Para Games record but was overtaken by Turkey's Oznur Cure, who shot 704 in her final attempt. Despite missing the top spot, Sheetal's remarkable performance solidified her position among the world’s best para archers. Having overcome immense challenges, including a congenital condition that left her without arms, Sheetal’s resilience continues to inspire many as she advances in the competition.

The 2024 Paralympic Games begin in Paris on August 29, following a grand opening ceremony. This edition, the 17th Summer Paralympics, occurs two weeks after the conclusion of the Olympic Games. India, achieved a record 19 medals at the Tokyo Paralympics, is set to compete in multiple sports. The youngest Indian athlete, 17-year-old Sheetal Devi, will participate in para archery. In badminton, athletes including Palak Kohli, Thulasimathi Murugesan, and gold medalist Krishna Nagar will compete. Aruna Tanwar will participate in para taekwondo, while Jyoti Gaderiya aims for medals in para cycling's C1-3 3000m individual pursuit.

Digvijay Patil, an Indian Foreign Service officer, has completed the 'Ironman 140.6 European Championship', becoming the first Indian diplomat to achieve this feat. The event consisted of a 3.8 km swim, 180 km bike ride, and 42.2 km run, which Patil finished in 14 hours and 22 minutes. Currently serving as Second Secretary in the Indian embassy in Kazakhstan, Patil showcased his endurance and dedication. His achievement marks a notable milestone, earning him the coveted 'Ironman' title. Patil's remarkable performance highlights his commitment to pushing boundaries beyond his diplomatic duties.

The 2024 Paris Paralympics opening ceremony kicks off tonight, featuring a historic parade through the city's iconic landmarks. Approximately 4,400 athletes from over 180 countries will participate, including ParalympicsGB flagbearers Lucy Shuker and Terry Bywater. The ceremony starts at 7pm local time and concludes at 10pm. This marks the first time the Paralympics opening ceremony will be held outside a stadium. Competitions begin Thursday in sports such as track cycling, swimming, taekwondo, and table tennis. The event is expected to draw 65,000 spectators, showcasing the unity and determination of Paralympic athletes from around the world.

Jay Shah, 35, was appointed as the youngest-ever Chairman of the International Cricket Council (ICC) on Tuesday, succeeding Greg Barclay. Shah, previously the BCCI Secretary, aims to globalize cricket, with the inclusion of the sport in the Los Angeles 2028 Olympics being a key goal. He expressed his commitment to promoting multiple formats, embracing new technologies, and expanding cricket into global markets. Shah's appointment means he will step down as BCCI Secretary, as the ICC Chair is now an independent post. Shah stated, "We stand at a critical juncture to elevate the love for cricket worldwide."

Salva Marjan, a 25-year-old from Perambra, Kerala, is set to make history as the first woman from Kerala to join the Formula 1 Academy in January 2025. Marjan, who has excelled in motorsports and F4 championships, will join the prestigious academy organized by the Fédération Internationale de l'Automobile (FIA). Despite facing financial and societal challenges, she has demonstrated exceptional potential and determination. Recently, Marjan moved to the United Arab Emirates to access better training and opportunities. Her participation in the F1 Academy marks a significant milestone in her career and a breakthrough for women in motorsports from Kerala.

Sven-Goran Eriksson, the first foreign manager of the England men's football team, has died at 76 after a battle with pancreatic cancer. Eriksson managed England from 2001 to 2006, overseeing a team with stars like David Beckham and Wayne Rooney. Tributes have come from across football, including Prince William and FA Chief Executive Mark Bullingham. Eriksson also managed Lazio and Manchester City. He passed away at home surrounded by family, leaving a significant legacy in football.

Olympic wrestler Vinesh Phogat was awarded a gold medal by the Sarvkhap Panchayat in Haryana on August 25, 2024, despite her disqualification from the 50-kg freestyle final at the Paris Olympics due to being overweight. Addressing the event, Phogat stated, “My fight has not ended; it has just begun.” She expressed gratitude for the support and emphasized that such gestures uplift women athletes. Phogat, who was disqualified after a strenuous weight-cutting process, acknowledged the love and encouragement she received upon returning to India, reinforcing her commitment to fighting for her and others' rights.

Sheetal Devi, 17, from Jammu, is set to make history as the world’s first female archer to compete without arms at the Paralympics. Born with phocomelia, Devi uses her legs and jaw to operate the bow and arrow. Ranked first in the compound open women's category, she won gold at the Asian Para Games and silver at the Para-Archery World Championship. Devi's remarkable journey from a small village to international competitions, aided by customized equipment and dedicated training, exemplifies her determination. The Paralympics in Paris, starting on August 28, will see her compete against top global archers.

Indian shooter Manu Bhaker, fresh from winning two bronze medals at the Paris Olympics 2024, met boxing legend Mary Kom. The eight-time world champion and London 2012 bronze medalist inspired Manu, who shared the interaction on Instagram, expressing gratitude for Mary’s blessings. Manu also requested a workout session with Mary Kom. Meanwhile, Mary had stepped down as India’s Chef-de-Mission for Paris 2024 due to personal reasons but continues to support Indian athletes. Manu’s impressive Olympic performance, with medals in the 10m air pistol events, has added to India's Olympic glory.