Indian Paralympic athletes leave for Rio

New Delhi [India], Sept 1 : The Paralympic-bound Indian contingent left for the Brazilian city of Rio de Janeiro last night for next week's Summer Paralympic Games.

A total of 18 athletes, the largest-ever delegation from the country, will represent India at the prestigious quadrennial event, which is slated to be held from September 7 to 18.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday took to Twitter to extend his wholehearted support for the Rio-bound Paralympians.

"The people of India will be enthusiastically cheering for our athletes representing India at the Rio 2016 Paralympics, starting 7th Sept," tweeted PM Modi.

"We all wish our contingent for the Rio 2016 Paralympics the very best. I am sure our athletes will give their best (and) make us proud," the Prime Minister added. The country has now pinned high hopes on its para athletes after Indian athletes concluded their disappointing campaign at the just-concluded Rio Olympics with only two medals.

Source: ANI