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Deepa Malik
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Deepa Malik (born 30 September 1970) is an Indian para athlete from Haryana. She is the first Indian woman to win a medal in Paralympic Games. She won a silver medal at the 2016 Summer Paralympics in shot put.[2]

Key Information

In 2020, she was elected as President of the Paralympic Committee of India.[3]

Early life

[edit]

Malik was born to Veena Nagpal and Bal Krishan Nagpal in 1970.[4] Her father was in the Indian Army. Her brother, Vikram Nagpal, is a brigadier in the Indian Army.[4] Her elder daughter, Devika, is studying sports psychology.[4] At 5, she was diagnosed with a spinal tumor for which she underwent three years of treatment. The treatment was successful but Malik required aggressive physiotherapy to recover.

In 1999 at age 29, Malik was again diagnosed with spinal tumor. She underwent three surgeries to successfully remove the tumor but the surgeries left her paralyzed from the waist down. Afterwards, she again underwent physiotherapy for six years.[5] After recovering, Malik began to develop an interest in sports. She became a swimmer and a biker, and soon afterwards swam across the River Yamuna.[6]

Sports career

[edit]

Malik started her sports career at the age of 30 in 2000. She qualified B level in javelin throw F53 category for 2008 Summer Olympics at Beijing. In 2006, she came second in the FESPIC Games, Kuala Lumpur in S5 swimming backstroke category. In 2008, she represented India in the World Open Swimming Championship at Berlin and finished 10th in S5 swimming backstroke event. In 2009, she won a shot put bronze medal at IWAS World Games.[citation needed]

In January 2011, she won a silver medal at the IPC World Athletics Championship in Christchurch. At the same event, she qualified for the Commonwealth Games in shot put. In December 2011, she won two bronze medals with Asian records at the IWAS World Games at Sharjah. In April 2012, she won two gold medals at the first Malaysian Open Athletics Championship in Javelin and discus throw F53 category. In 2013, she qualified for the IPC World Athletics Championship at Lyon 2013 at the German Open Athletics Championship, Berlin 2013. In April 2014, she won a gold in the shot put F53-55 category at the IPC 2nd China Open Athletics Championship at Beijing. In 2015, she got a 5th place in the IPC Athletics World Championship, Doha, Qatar in shot put, diploma 5th position. In March 2016, she won a gold in javelin and silver in shot put at the IPC Oceania Asian Championship, Dubai, United Arab Emirates. In 2018, she won a gold in the F-53/54 javelin event at the Para Athletic Grand Prix held in Dubai.[citation needed]

Asian Para Games

[edit]

She won the first medal by an Indian woman winning a bronze at Para-Asian Games at China in December 2010. She is the only Indian woman to win medals in three consecutive Asian Para Games in 2010, 2014 and 2018.[7]

In 2014, she won a silver medal at the Incheon Asian Para Games 2014 in the women's 53–54 javelin with a new Asian Record. She also qualified for the IPC World Athletics Championship to be held at Doha in October 2015.[citation needed]

In 2018, she won two bronze medals in the Asian Para Games at Jakarta. She won a bronze in the F53/F54 category javelin throw and another bronze in F51/52/53 category discus throw.[citation needed]

Paralympic Games

[edit]

In the 2016 Summer Paralympics at Rio, she won a silver medal in shot put and became the first Indian woman to win a Paralympic medal.[citation needed]

Motorsports

[edit]

Deepa Malik was one of the first persons to receive a license for an invalid (modified) rally vehicle,[8][9] a case she consistently pursued for 19 months in Maharashtra. She is also the first physically challenged individual in the country to receive an official rally license from the Federation of Motor Sports Club of India (FMSCI) and become a navigator and driver in the toughest car rallies of the country- Raid-de-HIMALAYA 2009[10] and Desert Storm 2010.

She undertook an 8-day, 1,700-km drive in sub-zero temperatures which included a climb to 18,000 feet (5,500 m) in the Raid De Himalaya event that went through remote Himalayas, Leh, Shimla and Jammu.[11][12]

Malik participated in the grid and national anthem ceremony at the start of the 2013 Indian Grand Prix at the Buddh International Circuit.[13]

Personal life

[edit]

Malik is married to Bikram Singh Malik, who proposed to her with a bike rather than a ring. They bonded over a mutual love of sports. "I had fallen in love with Bikram because he was a biker," said Malik of their relationship. Malik is a former colonel in the Indian Army. Together, they have two daughters.[14]

In 2003, while her husband was away on tour, she opened a restaurant in Ahmednagar where she employed underprivileged youths and took care that they return to their education. The restaurant continued operations until its closure in 2010.[15]

Awards and recognition

[edit]

National awards

[edit]
The President, Shri Pranab Mukherjee presenting the Padma Shri Award to Ms. Deepa Malik, at a Civil Investiture Ceremony, at Rashtrapati Bhavan, in New Delhi on March 30, 2017
  • President Role Model Award (2014)
  • Arjuna Award in 2012 at the age of 42 years.[16]
  • Maharashtra Chhatrapati Award (sports) (2009–10)
  • Haryana Karambhoomi Award (2008)
  • Swawlamban Puruskar Maharashtra (2006)
  • Padma Shri Award (2017)[17]
  • First Ladies Award - Ministry of Women & Child Development.
  • Major Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna Award (2019)[18][19]

Other awards

[edit]
  • WCRC Leaders Asia Excellence Award 2014
  • Limca people of the year award 2014
  • iCONGO Karamveer Puruskar 2014
  • Amazing Indian Awards Times Now-2013
  • Cavinkare National Ability Mastery Award −2013
  • Karamaveer Chakra award 2013
  • Nominee for L'Oreal Femina Awards 2013 in “Women We Love Category”
  • Batra Positive Health Hero Award 2012
  • AWWA Excellence Award For Sports 2012
  • Media Peace & Excellence Award For Sports 2012
  • Maharana Mewar Arawali Sports Award 2012
  • Misaal-e-Himmat Award (2012)
  • International Women's day appreciation Award 2011 – Cancer Patient Aid Association New Delhi.
  • Shree Shakti Puruskar CARE- 2011
  • District Sports Award Ahmednagar-2010
  • Rashtra Gaurav Puraskar 2009
  • Naari Gaurav Puraskar 2009
  • Guru Gobind Shaurya Puraskar 2009
  • Rotary Women Of The Year Award 2007
For the silver medal at the 2016 Summer Paralympics

Records and rankings

[edit]
  • Holds An Official IPC Asian Record In Javelin F-53 Category – Felicitated by Milkha Singh and P.T.Usha.
  • Holds All Three National Records In Throws {Discus, Javelin, Shot-put} In F-53 Category
  • Holds All Three National Records In S-1 Swimming Category {Back Stroke, Breast Stroke, Free Style }
  • World Ranking 2010–12 – 2nd Shot-put, 3rd -Discus, 3rd Javelin
  • Asian Ranking 2010–12 – 1st In All Three Throws

LIMCA World Records

  • Longest Pan-India drive done by a paraplegic women. Chennai-Delhi 3278 km – 2013[22]
  • Driving Across Nine High Altitude Passes in Nine Days on Leh-Ladakh Highest Motorable Roads. (First Woman in the world in her disability to attempt a journey like this – 2011)
  • Riding Special Bike −2009
  • Swimming in River Yamuna Against The Current For 1 km. Allahabad-2008

Public appearances

[edit]

Political career

[edit]

Deepa Malik joined the BJP shortly before the 2019 general election.[24] She is a member of the working group in the formulation 12th five-year plan (2012–2017) on sports and physical education as nominated by the Planning Commission HRD Division on behalf of the Sports Ministry.

See also

[edit]

References

[edit]
[edit]
Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia

Deepa Malik

View on Grokipedia
from Grokipedia
Deepa Malik (born 30 September 1970) is an Indian para-athlete who became the first woman from her country to win a medal at the , securing silver in the women's F-53 event at the in Rio de Janeiro with a throw of 8.19 meters, a personal best. Paraplegic below the chest following surgeries that led to 54 spinal fusions and loss of mobility after 2009, Malik transitioned from pre-injury pursuits like long-distance biking and rally driving to competitive para-sports starting in 2012 to combat depression, excelling in , javelin, discus, and . She has accumulated 23 international medals and over 60 national-level medals, including golds at three consecutive (2014, 2018, 2022) and setting an Asian record in . In recognition of her sporting excellence, she received the in 2012, the in 2017, and was listed among the top 10 female para-athletes globally by the .

Early Life and Background

Childhood and Education

Deepa Malik was born on 30 September 1970 in Bhaiswal, , , to Colonel Bal Krishan Nagpal, an officer in the , and Veena Nagpal. Raised in a military family, her childhood involved frequent relocations across due to her father's postings, fostering an adaptable and active early life without any congenital . Her brother, Vikram Nagpal, pursued a career in the , eventually attaining the rank of . Malik attended Kendriya Vidyalaya in Calcutta (now ) for her schooling, a central government institution commonly accessed by children of armed forces personnel. She subsequently graduated with a in English Literature from Sophia College in , , completing her formal higher education before entering adulthood.

Onset of Disability and Adaptation

Deepa Malik experienced her first encounter with a at age five, undergoing treatment that included aggressive physiotherapy over approximately three years, after which she regained the ability to walk independently. In 1999, at age 29, Malik was diagnosed with another that resulted in below the waist following three surgeries and 183 stitches. The condition required her to use a permanently, marking a profound shift in her physical capabilities while raising a young daughter. Post-diagnosis, Malik adapted by channeling her energy into high-adrenaline pursuits to combat depression and rebuild purpose, becoming the first Indian woman with to complete a solo bike expedition to Khardungla Pass, the world's highest motorable road, in 2011. She also participated in car rallies and , leveraging upper-body strength developed through consistent training, which laid the groundwork for her transition into competitive . During recovery periods, listening to radio broadcasts provided , helping her maintain mental fortitude amid physical limitations. These adaptations emphasized and reframed as a catalyst for unconventional achievements rather than a barrier.

Athletic Career

Entry into Para Sports

Following emergency surgery in 1999 to remove a spinal tumor, Deepa Malik became paraplegic from the chest down, requiring extensive rehabilitation including 183 stitches across three procedures. She underwent approximately six years of physiotherapy to regain functionality, during which she incorporated swimming into her routine to strengthen her upper body and shoulders, initially as a therapeutic exercise rather than a competitive pursuit. A member of India's Sports Authority observed her rapid progress and speed in the pool despite her disability, prompting her formal entry into organized para sports at age 36 in 2006. Malik's international debut came that year at the FESPIC Games in , where she competed for in and won her first medal, representing an early milestone in her transition from rehabilitation to elite para-athletics. This event, a regional competition for athletes with disabilities in the and South Pacific, highlighted her adaptability, though she later shifted focus to field events like and due to the physical demands and support requirements of aquatic disciplines. Her entry emphasized self-motivated resilience, as she pursued sports without prior youth training, defying norms where para-athletes typically begin earlier. By 2010, she had earned a in at the , signaling her pivot toward throwing events.

Swimming and Early Disciplines

Following her spinal cord surgery in 2001, which resulted in below the chest, Deepa Malik turned to as part of to regain strength and mobility. She transitioned from therapeutic exercises to competitive para-swimming, competing in the S5 classification for swimmers with moderate impairments. Malik represented internationally for the first time at the 2006 FESPIC Games in , where she secured a in the women's 50m S5 event. Malik accumulated multiple national-level medals in para-swimming events during the mid-2000s, contributing to her overall tally of over 50 national medals across aquatic and field disciplines before 2016. In , she competed at the World Open Championships, marking further exposure in the sport, though specific placements were not podium finishes. These achievements established her as a versatile para-athlete, with serving as her initial competitive outlet post-injury. By 2008–2009, Malik shifted focus to field events, experimenting with , , and in the F53 category for upper-body impairments with wheelchair use. She earned national medals in these throwing disciplines early on, building a foundation of 68 combined national and state-level honors in swimming and throws by the early 2010s. This multi-disciplinary approach, prioritizing javelin initially, preceded her specialization in for major international meets.

Athletics and Shot Put Focus


Deepa Malik competed in field events, with a primary focus on in the F53 for seated throwers with full arm strength but limited trunk control due to . Her dedication to the discipline intensified after early experiences in and discus, leading to consistent international representation starting in the late . Malik's breakthrough in occurred at the 2011 IPC Athletics World Championships in , , where she secured a in the women's F52/53 event. She followed this with a in the at the 2009 IWAS World Games. These results established her as a top contender in , culminating in her at the 2016 Rio Paralympics in the F53 category, achieved with a personal best throw of 4.61 meters on her sixth attempt, which also set an Asian record at the time. This Paralympic performance marked India's first medal won by a woman in the Games. Throughout her career, Malik held multiple national records in and contributed to India's development through her training regimen, which emphasized adaptive techniques for seated throws. She competed in subsequent events, including the , though without additional Paralympic medals, maintaining her status as a record-holder in the F53 domestically.

Key International Competitions

Malik achieved her first major international success with a in the women's F52/53 category at the 2011 IPC Athletics World Championships in , , marking an early breakthrough in her career. In the , she secured a in F52/53 at the 2010 Guangzhou edition, followed by a silver in the same event at the 2014 Incheon Games. At the 2018 Jakarta , Malik claimed two bronzes: one in F51/52/53 with a best effort of 9.67 meters, and another in F53/54. Her pinnacle came at the in Rio de Janeiro, where on September 12, she won silver in women's F53 with a personal-best throw of 4.61 meters, becoming the first Indian woman to earn a Paralympic medal.
EventYearLocationDisciplineMedalDetails
IPC Athletics World Championships2011Christchurch, Shot put F52/53SilverQualifying performance for further international events
Asian Para Games2010, F52/53First medal for an Indian woman in the event
Asian Para Games2014, F52/53SilverDemonstrated consistency in field events
Summer Paralympics2016Rio de Janeiro, F53Silver4.61 m throw; historic for Indian para-athletics
2018, Discus F51/52/539.67 m throw
2018, F53/54Expanded medal tally in multi-event participation

National Records and Rankings

Deepa Malik has held national records in the F-53 classification for shot put, discus throw, and javelin throw, establishing her dominance in India's para-athletics throwing events. In shot put, she achieved a national record distance of 4.48 meters during national trials prior to the 2016 Rio Paralympics. These records underscored her position as the leading competitor in the category domestically, with consistent performances in national championships reinforcing her top rankings. Throughout her career, Malik amassed 58 gold medals at the national level across disciplines, primarily in throws, highlighting her sustained excellence and repeated top placements in Athletics Federation of India-sanctioned events. Her records in these events remained benchmarks for subsequent competitors in the F-53 class until potentially surpassed, reflecting rigorous training adaptations post her 1999 .

Motorsports Pursuits

Introduction to Biking and Rallying

Deepa Malik, paralyzed from the waist down following spinal surgery in to remove a tumor, initially pursued to strengthen her upper body, which facilitated her return to motorbike riding—a passion she had enjoyed prior to her . After three years of recovery, biking became her first post-disability athletic pursuit, as she customized a to accommodate her , enabling participation in rallies such as those featured on . In 2009, Malik joined the Himalayan Motorsports Association and completed an 8-day, 1,700 km expedition on a modified bike, reaching elevations of 18,000 feet in sub-zero temperatures, marking her entry into high-altitude . That same year, she became the first paraplegic individual to compete in the Raid de Himalaya, one of the world's most challenging motor rallies, conducted in the Himalayan terrain at altitudes exceeding 16,000 feet. She obtained India's first license for a modified , underscoring her pioneering adaptations in motorsports for the disabled. These endeavors earned her a entry for the longest drive by a quadriplegic in sub-zero temperatures and established her as India's sole female paraplegic biker at the time, with subsequent involvement in awareness rides promoting social causes. Her rallying pursuits emphasized resilience and technical modifications, such as reinforced handlebars and custom seating, to navigate extreme conditions while compensating for lower-body immobility.

Notable Expeditions and Achievements

Following her adaptation to through customized vehicles, Deepa Malik became the first physically challenged person in to obtain a for a modified rally vehicle, enabling participation in high-altitude motorsports. She joined the Himalayan Motorsports Association and completed an 8-day, 1,700 km biking expedition to elevations of 18,000 feet in sub-zero temperatures, marking an early feat in extreme conditions. In 2009, Malik participated in the Raid de Himalaya, recognized as one of the world's highest and most challenging motorsports rallies, where she served as both and in category using a modified . The event traversed remote Himalayan routes including , , and , testing participants with treacherous terrain and altitudes exceeding 16,000 feet. Malik achieved a Limca Book of Records entry as the first woman with to ride a customized across nine high-altitude passes in Leh-Ladakh over nine consecutive days, navigating some of the world's highest motorable roads. This expedition, undertaken around 2011, covered rugged paths prone to landslides and oxygen scarcity, demonstrating her proficiency in off-road biking adapted for disability. Additional records include a 58 km round-trip ATV ride from to Trimbakeshwar in 2009, her third entry for paraplegic adventure biking. In 2013, she completed the longest pan-India drive by a paraplegic woman, spanning 3,278 km from to in a customized . These accomplishments, totaling four adventure records, underscore her pioneering role in accessible motorsports despite physical constraints.

Leadership in Para Sports

Presidency of Paralympic Committee of India

Deepa Malik was elected unopposed as the president of the Paralympic Committee of India (PCI) on February 1, 2020, marking her as the first woman to lead the national paralympic body. This election resolved a prolonged administrative impasse within the organization, with Malik's candidacy enabled by her retirement from competitive para-athletics in September 2019, a move required to avoid conflicts of interest under PCI governance rules. As president, Malik prioritized enhancing infrastructure, training programs, and policy advocacy to mainstream para-sports in , leveraging increased government support to elevate the sector's visibility and performance. She focused on preparing athletes for international competitions, including efforts to secure a double-digit medal haul for at the Tokyo 2020 Paralympics (held in 2021), which aligned with broader national initiatives recognizing para-athletes through awards like the Khel Ratna. Under her leadership, the PCI emphasized value-driven inspiration at the national level to motivate emerging para-athletes, contributing to sustained growth in participation and achievements. Malik's tenure extended into 2024, during which the PCI faced scrutiny over election timelines, though she publicly advocated for adherence to the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports' deadline of January 26, 2024, for conducting polls. The subsequent revocation of a brief PCI suspension by the ministry in March 2024 was described by Malik as a "joyous occasion" for the committee, reaffirming its operational continuity. Her role also extended regionally, with an appointment as South Asia's sub-regional representative by the Asian Paralympic Committee in July 2024.

Advocacy for Infrastructure and Policy

Deepa Malik contributed to the formulation of national sports policies as a member of the for the 12th Five Year Plan (2012–2017) under the Planning Commission of , focusing on enhancements for physically challenged athletes. Her efforts emphasized integrating disability sports into broader frameworks, advocating for equitable and policy refinements to support para-athletes. During her tenure as President of the Paralympic Committee of (PCI) from 2016 to 2021, Malik prioritized expanding para sports infrastructure by pushing for the establishment of state-level para sports associations, achieving coverage in 25 of 's 30 states by 2023 and calling for full nationwide implementation. She advocated for state governments to align para sports funding and opportunities with those of Olympic disciplines, including equal job reservations, cash awards, and integration of para events into national competitions like at shared venues. Under PCI leadership, para-athletes gained parity in facilities with able-bodied counterparts through schemes like the Target Olympic Podium Scheme (), which supported 38 para-athletes with financial aid, custom equipment such as specialized wheelchairs, and resources. Malik also served as an expert consultant on Disability Inclusive Accessible Infrastructure for 's Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs, promoting universally accessible designs in public spaces. She stressed the need for improved accessibility in hotels, hostels, and to enable to host more international para sports events, arguing that such measures are critical for the "Divyang" population and global competitiveness. These initiatives extended beyond sports venues to foster broader inclusive policies, including fair resource distribution and coach training programs.

Challenges and Criticisms in Administration

Malik's tenure as president of the Paralympic Committee of India (PCI), commencing on February 1, 2020, encountered governance scrutiny, particularly regarding compliance with the National Sports Code. In September 2019, prior to her election, the PCI faced de-recognition by the sports ministry for violations including non-adherence to code provisions on office-bearer eligibility and election processes, though recognition was restored post-election. A major challenge arose in early 2024 when the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports suspended PCI's recognition on February 2, citing an "intentional delay" in electing a new executive committee after the prior term's expiry on December 31, 2023, in violation of the National Sports Code's mandate for timely polls. Malik attributed the postponement to avoiding disruptions during the Para Shooting World Cup (March 6–15, 2024), which offered 24 Paralympic quotas for Paris, but critics viewed it as non-compliance risking athlete preparations and event hosting. The International Paralympic Committee urged resolution to prioritize Paris 2024 readiness, highlighting potential impacts on Indian para-sports infrastructure. Suspension was lifted on March 5, 2024, after elections proceeded, with the ministry noting rectification of the electoral delay as the primary concern. Criticisms also surfaced over perceived biases in award selections. In August 2020, the All India Sports Council for the Deaf accused Malik of favouritism in the committee, claiming undue preference for para-athletes, particularly given her PCI role despite its then-pending affiliation. Malik countered that her involvement stemmed solely from her Khel Ratna status, independent of PCI presidency, dismissing the allegations as unfounded. Administrative inefficiencies under her leadership were further highlighted in March 2020, when Malik herself acknowledged that PCI's off-field issues had cost para-athletes qualification slots for Tokyo 2020 by impeding international participation and event approvals. Similar operational lapses persisted, as evidenced by athlete complaints of during the , where support logistics faltered, though Malik attributed faults to individual associations rather than PCI oversight. These episodes underscored recurring tensions between administrative priorities and athlete welfare, amid PCI's push for para-sports growth.

Political Engagement

Alignment with Political Figures

Deepa Malik aligned herself with the (BJP) by formally joining the organization on March 25, 2019, ahead of the elections, in the presence of Haryana BJP unit chief Subhash Barala and other senior leaders. Upon joining, she cited the party's emphasis on women empowerment as a key factor, specifically praising Prime Minister Narendra Modi's initiatives and mindset toward women's issues as demonstrably supportive. Her association with Modi has extended beyond party affiliation, including public endorsements of government accessibility efforts, such as the wheelchair-friendly design of the new building inaugurated in 2023. In 2024, amid the suspension of the Paralympic Committee of , Malik directly appealed to Modi and Sports Minister for reconsideration, highlighting her reliance on central leadership for para-sports governance. Malik received an invitation to attend Modi's swearing-in ceremony as Prime Minister-designate on , 2025, reflecting ongoing rapport with the BJP's top echelons; she described the event as an opportunity to witness "the next chapter of progress" for . No public alignments with opposition figures or parties, such as the , have been documented in her political engagements.

Public Policy Contributions

Deepa Malik contributed to the formulation of national sports policies as a member of the for the 12th Five Year Plan (2012–2017), advocating for enhanced frameworks supporting physically challenged athletes, including better resource allocation and training infrastructure. Her efforts emphasized integrating disability-specific provisions into broader planning to address systemic gaps in funding and facilities for para-sports. As a sports activist, Malik has focused on refining policies for disability sports inclusion, serving on the Five-Year Committee for Sports to promote equitable access and participation for persons with disabilities. She campaigned for increased representation of disabled individuals in competitive sports, highlighting barriers like inadequate wheelchair accessibility at public infrastructure such as airports. Malik served as an expert consultant for the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs on disability-inclusive accessible infrastructure under the , influencing urban planning guidelines to incorporate ramps, tactile paths, and adaptive features for mobility-impaired citizens. In 2019, she credited government policies for "Divyangs" (a term for persons with disabilities) with reducing in para-athletics preparation, enabling non-discriminatory access to events like the 2016 Rio Paralympics. Her policy advocacy extends to grassroots initiatives promoting societal inclusion, such as challenging perceptual biases against disabilities through targeted programs that align with national development goals for equity in sports and public services.

Personal Life and Philanthropy

Family and Relationships

Deepa Malik married Bikram Singh Malik, an officer from the , on June 27, 1989, in a love-cum-arranged . The couple bonded over shared passions for adventure sports, including ; Bikram proposed to her with a rather than a traditional ring, reflecting their mutual adrenaline-driven interests that began during her college days when she played university-level sports. Following a tumor in 1999 that left her paraplegic, Bikram provided crucial emotional and practical support, encouraging her transition into para-sports and expeditions despite the challenges of life postings. The couple marked their 30th wedding anniversary in , highlighting a sustained by common adventures, with Bikram continuing solo trips as late as 2021. Malik and Bikram have two daughters, Ambika and , born during their early marriage years. has collaborated with her mother on initiatives like the Wheeling Happiness NGO, which focuses on rehabilitation for the differently-abled, while the family resided in , , amid Bikram's military career. No public records indicate separations or conflicts in their relationship, which has been described as resilient amid Malik's medical and athletic pursuits.

Social Initiatives and Memoir

Deepa Malik co-founded the Wheeling Happiness Foundation with her daughter Devika Malik to promote inclusion and access to opportunities for people with . The foundation has distributed over 500 mobility-aiding devices to underprivileged individuals and conducts sensitization training for staff and other sectors. As an ambassador for the foundation, Malik supports initiatives focused on cleft palate repair and related social welfare efforts. During the COVID-19 pandemic in April 2020, through Wheeling Happiness, Malik organized the "Happy Kitchen" program in Kanpur, Uttar Pradesh, to provide meals to daily wage workers affected by lockdowns. In September 2025, she joined the board of AssisTech Foundation (ATF), an organization aimed at empowering persons with disabilities through assistive technology and policy advocacy. These efforts reflect Malik's broader commitment to disability awareness, women's empowerment, and societal inclusion, often integrated with her advocacy for accessible infrastructure. Malik authored the memoir Bring It On: The Incredible Story of My Life, published by India on January 7, 2025. The book chronicles her personal challenges, including leading to , her transition to para-sports, and triumphs such as winning India's first female Paralympic , while addressing themes of resilience, , and redefining narratives. Unveiled at events like Sattva Nation's International Day in July 2025, the emphasizes her philosophy that limitations are surmountable through determination.

Awards and Honors

National Civilian Awards

Deepa Malik received the , the fourth highest civilian award in , in 2017 for outstanding contributions in sports. The honour recognizes exceptional and distinguished service in various fields, including where Malik excelled as the first Indian woman to win a Paralympic medal. The award was presented by President at a civil investiture ceremony held at in on 30 March 2017. No other national civilian awards, such as higher-tier Padma honours, have been conferred upon her.

Sports-Specific Recognitions

Deepa Malik garnered notable sports-specific recognitions through her performances in para-athletics field events, amassing medals across major international competitions in shot put, javelin throw, and discus throw within the F52/53 classification for athletes with spinal cord injuries affecting upper body function. Her breakthrough came at the 2011 IPC Athletics World Championships in Christchurch, New Zealand, where she claimed silver in the women's shot put F52/53 event. At the in Rio de Janeiro, Malik won silver in the women's F53 with a throw of 4.61 meters, establishing her as the first Indian woman to medal at the . In events, she secured bronze in F52-53 in 2010, silver in javelin F53/54 in 2014, and bronzes in both javelin F53 (establishing a new Asian record of 19.43 meters) and in 2018. Additionally, she earned golds in and discus at the 2012 Malaysian Open Athletics Championship.
CompetitionEventMedal/RecognitionYear
IPC Athletics World Championships ()Shot Put F52/53Silver2011
(Rio de Janeiro) F53Silver2016
() F52-53Bronze2010
() F53/54Silver2014
() F53Bronze (Asian Record)2018
()Bronze2018
Malaysian Open Athletics ChampionshipJavelin/DiscusGold (each)2012
These achievements contributed to her accumulation of 23 international medals, underscoring her dominance in adaptive field athletics despite competing later in life following a 2009 surgery.

Legacy and Ongoing Influence

Impact on Indian Para Athletics

Deepa Malik's achievement of winning the in the women's F53 event at the 2016 Rio Paralympics established her as the first Indian to secure a Paralympic , thereby elevating the visibility of in and encouraging greater female participation in the discipline. This contributed to India's total of four medals at Rio, marking a pivotal moment that highlighted the potential for para-athletes to compete at the highest international levels. In , Malik was elected as the first female president of the Paralympic Committee of (PCI), a position she held until , during which she focused on enhancing training infrastructure, policy frameworks, and support systems for para-athletes. As president, she contributed to the formulation of sports policies tailored for persons with disabilities and advocated for increased government funding, which helped mainstream para sports and expand opportunities for athletes across disciplines. Her leadership emphasized equitable resource allocation and inclusivity, fostering a more robust for development. Under Malik's tenure, experienced substantial growth in para sports performance, with the medal tally rising from four at Rio 2016 to 19 at 2020 and reaching a record 29 at 2024, reflecting improved preparation and international competitiveness. She expressed confidence in expanding 's Paralympic quotas and supported initiatives to qualify more athletes, crediting collaborative efforts with government bodies for these advancements. Post-presidency, Malik continued to highlight the progress, noting in September 2025 that 's para-sports infrastructure had evolved to produce consistent international results. Malik's dual role as athlete and administrator has been credited with breaking barriers for women in , inspiring a shift toward greater recognition and investment in the field, though sustained growth also depended on broader governmental and institutional support. Her efforts in public advocacy and policy influence have helped transition from marginalization to a more integrated component of India's sports landscape.

Recent Activities and Public Role

In July 2024, Deepa Malik was appointed as the sub-regional representative for by the Asian Paralympic , succeeding her tenure as the first female president of the Paralympic of from 2020 to 2024. In this capacity, she contributes to regional para-sports development and coordination across South Asian nations. Malik also serves as a member of 's All India Council of Sports, advising on national sports policy and infrastructure. She has engaged in public commentary on growth, notably expressing optimism about 's achievements during her attendance at the World Para Athletics Championships in on September 30, 2025, coinciding with her 55th birthday. Beyond governance, Malik maintains a role as a and event participant, including as a special guest at resilience-focused gatherings in 2025. Her administrative experience includes reflecting on challenges like resource constraints in para-sports during a September 2024 .

References

  1. https://www.deepamalik.in/
  2. https://sportsmatik.com/hall-of-fame/view/deepa-malik-1093
  3. https://www.deepamalik.in/biography.html
  4. https://abilitymagazine.com/deepa-malik/
  5. https://www.smiletrainindia.org/advisory-council/dr-deepa-malik
  6. https://starsunfolded.com/deepa-malik/
  7. https://www.timesnownews.com/lifestyle/people/disrupthers-deepa-malik-talks-about-her-journey-from-being-diagnosed-with-spinal-tumor-to-winning-medals-in-paralympics-article-112449234
  8. https://www.paralympic.org/news/india-s-deepa-malik-clears-confusion-retirement
  9. https://www.patientsengage.com/personal-voices/spinal-tumour-patient-wonder-woman
  10. https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/sports/more-sports/others/darkest-night-brought-best-sunrise-of-my-life-recalls-paralympian-deepa-malik/articleshow/76180468.cms
  11. https://www.paralympic.org/news/para-parents-deepa-malik
  12. https://www.hindustantimes.com/olympics/deepa-malik-s-zest-for-life-lands-her-paralympic-shot-put-silver/story-MM69AwC80qF0n2lQfV9lJJ.html
  13. https://www.paralympic.org/news/indonesia-2018-deepa-malik-seeks-elusive-gold
  14. https://thebetterindia.com/136300/radio-paralympics-deepa-malik-gold-medal/
  15. https://www.bbc.com/news/world-asia-india-37346780
  16. https://www.olympics.com/en/news/paralympics-sports-activist-and-woman-extraordinaire-deepa-malik-leading-a-chang
  17. https://thedeshbandhuexpress.wordpress.com/2019/09/03/deepa-malik-the-true-warrior/
  18. https://www.deepamalik.in/achievements.aspx
  19. https://www.espn.com/olympics/story/_/id/17537378/deepa-malik
  20. https://www.business-standard.com/article/specials/rising-against-the-odds-116091601222_1.html
  21. https://www.paralympic.org/deepa-malik
  22. https://sportsmatik.com/sports-stars/deepa-malik-1093
  23. https://www.espn.com/olympics/story/_/id/17530174/deepa-malik-makes-history-shot-put-silver
  24. https://indianexpress.com/article/sports/sport-others/asian-para-games-three-more-gold-for-india-deepa-malik-wins-second-bronze-5399691/
  25. https://www.firstpost.com/sports/asian-para-games-2018-deepa-malik-clinches-bronze-medal-with-best-effort-of-9-67-metres-in-discus-throw-5367181.html
  26. https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/sports/more-sports/athletics/rio-paralympics-deepa-malik-scripts-history-wins-silver-in-shot-put/articleshow/54296676.cms
  27. https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/deepa-malik-first-indian-woman-to-win-paralympics-medal/articleshow/54301957.cms
  28. https://www.dailymail.co.uk/indiahome/indianews/article-3724228/Two-female-Paralympians-battle-court-represent-India-throwing-events-Rio.html
  29. https://www.gauravkumarmusings.com/musings/8padyi8rnh70mg666kxt54p9f2fe0m
  30. https://www.indiatoday.in/lifestyle/people/story/deepa-malik-first-indian-woman-win-medal-paralympic-games-biker-adventurer-ladakh-raid-de-himalaya-lifest-345067-2016-10-05
  31. https://www.motoroids.com/features/deepa-malik/
  32. https://www.kreedon.com/against-all-odds-the-inspiring-story-of-para-athlete-deepa-malik
  33. https://www.cnn.com/2016/09/12/sport/paralympics-2016-day-5-six-things-to-know
  34. https://www.dailymail.co.uk/indiahome/indianews/article-3822045/Indomitable-Deepa-Malik-Indian-woman-win-medal-Paralympics-avid-adventurer.html
  35. https://inshorts.com/en/news/deepa-malik-has-4-limca-adventure-records-to-her-name-1473740073547
  36. https://thebetterindia.com/37073/deepa-malik-adventure-sports-disability-inspiring-paralympics/
  37. https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/sports/more-sports/others/decorated-para-athlete-deepa-malik-elected-as-president-of-paralympic-committee-of-india/articleshow/73844426.cms
  38. https://www.insidethegames.biz/articles/1090007/malik-new-india-paralympic-president
  39. https://www.firstpost.com/sports/deepa-malik-confirms-retiring-from-sport-in-september-says-didnt-make-news-public-while-running-for-indian-paralympic-chief-8356741.html
  40. https://www.olympics.com/en/news/with-government-support-para-sport-is-becoming-mainstream-in-india-says-deepa-ma
  41. https://www.olympics.com/en/news/national-awards-khel-ratna-arjuna-award-deepa-malik-para-sports-motivation
  42. https://sputniknews.in/20231101/value--love-at-national-level-inspire-para-athletes-pci-chief-deepa-malik-5179750.html
  43. https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/sports/more-sports/others/i-was-always-in-favour-of-conducting-elections-on-time-pci-president-deepa-malik/articleshow/107436522.cms
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  45. https://sportstar.thehindu.com/other-sports/asian-paralympic-committee-appoints-deepa-malik-south-asia-representative-pci-apc-news/article68413521.ece
  46. https://commscredible.com/blog/f/as-a-sports-activist-not-a-sportswoman-i-champion-inclusion?blogcategory=In%2BPics
  47. https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/goa/silver-medal-at-rio-paralympics-helped-break-stereotypes-deepa-malik/articleshow/96837606.cms
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  49. https://sportstar.thehindu.com/other-sports/deepa-malik-paralympic-committee-of-india-international-para-competitions/article67935340.ece
  50. https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/[goa](/page/Goa)/silver-medal-at-rio-paralympics-helped-break-stereotypes-deepa-malik/articleshow/96837606.cms
  51. https://indianexpress.com/article/sports/sport-others/deepa-malik-elected-paralympic-committee-of-india-president-6246515/
  52. https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/sports/more-sports/others/sports-ministry-suspends-paralympic-committee-of-india-for-violating-sports-code/articleshow/107396001.cms
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  57. https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/sports/more-sports/others/sports-body-for-deaf-accuses-deepa-malik-of-favouritism-in-national-sports-awards-process-malik-says-claim-unfair/articleshow/77719208.cms
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  63. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wv_2JIay_Ls
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  71. https://sports.ndtv.com/athletics/videos/i-married-because-my-husband-was-ready-to-gift-me-a-bike-deepa-malik-432299
  72. https://www.instagram.com/p/CNG96nzDtn6/
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  95. https://www.instagram.com/p/DPfygxRDPVZ/
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