The addition of the Paralympics to the list is the first alteration for more than 20 years, and ensures the Games will remain on free-to-air television in the future, and not go behind a paywall.

The Games, founded at Stoke Mandeville Hospital in Buckinghamshire in 1948 by Sir Ludwig Guttmann, have become the biggest global event in disability sport.

During the Athens 2004 Games, 10.6 million people watched at least 15 consecutive minutes of coverage.

By Rio 2016, this figure had increased significantly to 31.6 million people.

At London 2012, Channel 4 dedicated 500 hours of broadcast time across its platforms, with this increasing to 700 hours for Rio 2016.

The Department for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS) claim that the addition of the Paralympic Games marks a "major step forward in improving the inclusivity of listed events" and that the addition of the Paralympics to the crown jewels list "delivers parity" with the Olympic Games.

"The Paralympic Games is one of the highlights of the sporting calendar, as the country comes together to support our world-class Paralympic athletes," Britain's Sports Minister Nigel Adams said. 

"It is only right that the event is available on free-to-air television for all to enjoy.

"Adding the Games to the crown jewels list of major sporting events guarantees it the platform it deserves every four years that will help inspire the sporting stars of the future.

"I am proud that the UK is the birthplace of the Paralympic movement which has done so much in shifting attitudes and raising awareness on disability."

Sixteen-time Paralympic Games medallist Baroness Tanni Grey-Thompson said: "I am delighted that the Paralympic Games has been added to the list of 'crown jewels'.

"When you look at the other events it will now sit alongside, it means so much to athletes, current and retired, to know the level that the Paralympic Games has reached in the public consciousness and how much it means to everyone."

Justin Tomlinson, Minister for Disabled People, added:  "Anyone who watched Ellie Simmonds exciting the crowds on her way to gold in London could not fail to see how inspirational the Paralympic movement has been and will continue to be. 

"That is why it is so important that Paralympic sports are broadcast in homes across the nation, to convey the message that no-one should be held back because of their background.

"Whether that is playing a sport they see championed on TV or pursuing their chosen career, our priority is to build a more inclusive society for disabled people which is why we are working on a national strategy for disabled people, building on the vital work that is underway."

This latest change to the list sees the Paralympic Games being made a "Group A event" giving them the same status as the Olympic Games, men’s FIFA World Cup, FA Cup Final, Grand National and Wimbledon finals.