Harvinder Singh and Dr. Satyapal Honored with Padma Shri for Excellence in Para Sports
In 2025, the prestigious Padma Shri award recognized the contributions of two remarkable figures in Indian para-sports—Harvinder Singh, a pioneering para-archer, and Dr. Satyapal Singh, an esteemed para-athletics coach. Their unwavering dedication and accomplishments have played a significant role in elevating India’s standing in the global sports arena.
Harvinder Singh: Pioneering Para-Archer
Harvinder Singh has etched his name in history as a trailblazer in Indian para-archery. Overcoming significant challenges, he became the first Indian archer to win a medal at the Paralympics, securing bronze in the men’s individual recurve event at the Tokyo 2020 Games. His achievement was not only a personal milestone but also a defining moment for Indian para-sports, inspiring countless aspiring athletes.
Born in a rural village, Harvinder’s journey was one of resilience and perseverance. His passion for archery, coupled with rigorous training and an unyielding spirit, led him to numerous national and international accolades. Receiving the Padma Shri in 2025 is a testament to his contribution to Indian sports and his role in inspiring the next generation of para-athletes.
Dr. Satyapal Singh: Guiding Excellence in Para-Athletics
Dr. Satyapal Singh has been a cornerstone of para-athletics in India, coaching and mentoring athletes who have brought laurels to the country. His dedication to training differently-abled athletes has resulted in numerous international successes, making India a force to be reckoned with in para-sports.
With decades of experience, Dr. Singh has worked tirelessly to provide world-class training facilities and guidance to para-athletes, many of whom have gone on to win Paralympic and World Championship medals. His scientific approach to training, combined with his deep empathy for his athletes, has helped shape India’s most accomplished para-athletes. The Padma Shri award in 2025 is a fitting recognition of his unwavering commitment to excellence in sports coaching.
