Who is the first para-athlete to receive the Padma Bhushan award in India?

The correct option is Devendra Jhajharia.

Here is a step-by-step explanation of why this option is correct:

1. Understanding the Padma Bhushan Award:
The Padma Bhushan is the third-highest civilian award in the Republic of India, preceded by the Bharat Ratna and the Padma Vibhushan, and followed by the Padma Shri. It is awarded for distinguished service of a high order in any field, including sports.

2. Devendra Jhajharia's Achievements:
Devendra Jhajharia is a highly celebrated Indian Paralympic javelin thrower. He is the first Indian para-athlete to win two gold medals at the Paralympics (winning gold in the Javelin throw F46 event at the 2004 Athens Paralympics and repeating the feat at the 2016 Rio Paralympics). He also won a silver medal at the 2020 Tokyo Paralympics.

3. The Historic Milestone:
In recognition of his outstanding contributions to sports and his historic achievements representing India on the global Paralympic stage, Devendra Jhajharia was awarded the Padma Bhushan in 2022. This honor made him the first-ever para-athlete in Indian sports history to receive the prestigious Padma Bhushan award.