SEP 24: Union Minister for Youth Affairs & Sports and Labour & Employment, Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya, felicitated India’s medal-winning athletes from the 73rd Inline Speed Skating World Championships 2025, held in Beidaihe, China, from September 13 to 21.
In a landmark achievement, the Indian team delivered its best-ever performance at the global stage, finishing 5th overall among 40+ participating nations with a total of five medals — three Gold and two Bronze.
This championship proved historic for Indian skating with multiple firsts:
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India’s first-ever Senior medal at the World Championships,
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The first Junior Gold, and
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The highest medal tally in India’s skating history at the event.
Praising the athletes, Dr. Mandaviya said, “Our youth continue to excel in both mainstream and emerging sports. This remarkable achievement in speed skating is a proud moment for the entire nation. I congratulate our athletes, coaches, support teams, and the Roller-Skating Federation of India.”
Key Medal Winners:
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Anandkumar Velkumar (22): Made history with two Gold medals in the 1000m Sprint and 42.195 km Marathon, plus a Bronze in the 500m Sprint — India’s first Senior-level medalist.
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Krish Sharma (18): Claimed India’s first Junior Gold in the 1000m Sprint.
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Anish Raj (17): Earned a Bronze in the Junior Men’s One Lap Sprint.
The Indian squad included 20 skaters (8 Seniors and 12 Juniors) and competed across 42 events in both categories, showcasing strong performances against over 40 participating countries.