State Level Special Games for Divyangjan 2025 held at KhelGaon

GANGTOK, : The State Level Special Games for Divyangjan 2025 was held at KhelGaon, Reshithang today. It was organised by Special Olympic Bharat-Sikkim Chapter in collaboration with Sports and Youth Affairs department, Education department and Women, Child, Senior Citizens and Divyangjan Welfare and Development department and supported by Sikkim State Disaster Management Authority and Sikkim Police.

Namchi district emerged as the overall champions.

The games was inaugurated by Governor Om Prakash Mathur as chief guest along with Women, Child, Senior Citizens and Divyangjan Welfare minister Samdup Lepcha, DGP Akshay Sachdeva, Special Olympic Bharat-Sikkim Chapter president Kuber Sharma, Sikkim Olympic Association president Kuber Bhandari, SOA general secretary Jas Lal Pradhan, SFA president Menla Ethenpa, and Women, Child, Senior Citizens and Divyangjan Welfare secretary-cum-project director Normit Lepcha.

Addressing the gathering, the Governor emphasized the importance of creating an inclusive society by ensuring equal opportunities and facilities for every section of the community. He stated that such events promote equality and inclusion, and serve as an inspiration in achieving the vision of Viksit Bharat@2047. He appreciated the efforts of the organization and remarked that recognizing the achievements and dedication of persons with disabilities is instrumental in building a strong and inclusive nation.

During the programme, the Governor felicitated special Olympic medal lists Manish Dhakal and Nirmal Dahal who had brought laurels to the nation in different Special Olympics held in the past.

The Governor has also announced financial aid of Rs. 5 lakh to Special Olympics Bharat-Sikkim Chapter.

The winners of the district games, around 120, had participated in the State level competition at KhelGaon.

Addressing media, Normit Lepcha expressed her gratitude towards the Special Olympics Bharat for organizing State Level Special Games for Divyangjan. She said,“Sports is very important as it encourages the special children and make them feel inclusive and integral part of the society. Sporting activities not only strengthen them physically but mentally.”

She informed that the Women, Child, Senior Citizens and Divyangjan Welfare department has been operating three special schools in the State. “There are many facilities being extended for the welfare and wellbeing of the Divyangjan under the Central and State governments like facilitating pensions, one time grant annually from the State for marrying a Divyangjan and many more.”