Which of the following correctly identifies India's first Paralympic medallist and his achievement?
Show answer & explanation
Correct answer: B
Explanation
The correct answer is option 2 i.e. Murlikant Petkar – Gold, men's 50m freestyle, Heidelberg 1972.
Murlikant Petkar made history by becoming India's first-ever Paralympic gold medallist at the 1972 Heidelberg Games. A former soldier in the Indian Army, Petkar sustained permanent disabilities during the 1965 Indo-Pak war. He transitioned to swimming and set a world record in the 50m freestyle event with a timing of 37.33 seconds. His achievement laid the foundation for para-sports in India, though it took several decades for his contribution to receive widespread national recognition.