Mandi, Nov 4 Persons with disabilities deserve recognition, dignity and equal opportunities rather than sympathy, Himachal Pradesh Governor Kavinder Gupta said on Wednesday, lauding the achievements of the state’s special athletes at international sporting events and calling for collective efforts to build an inclusive society.
Addressing the Deepawali Fest 2026, organised by Special Olympics Bharat, Himachal Pradesh, at Sundernagar in Mandi district to celebrate the abilities of special children, Gupta said their outstanding performances had brought laurels to the state and the country.
The achievements of the athletes, he said, reflected the true spirit of determination, inclusion and excellence.
The Governor lauded the central government’s decision to include Special Olympics medal winners in its cash award scheme for the first time in 2015, saying it addressed a long-standing gap in the recognition of their sporting achievements, according to a statement.
He said the Prime Minister had consistently emphasised that persons with disabilities deserved equal opportunities, dignity and encouragement rather than mere sympathy.
Platforms such as the Special Olympics, he observed, translated this vision into action by providing young athletes opportunities to showcase their abilities, achieve excellence and contribute to nation-building.
Expressing pride in Himachal Pradesh’s achievements at the World Winter Games in Turin, Gupta congratulated Shalini, Anil Kumar, Aakriti, Giridhar and Hemchand for winning medals, and appreciated Shivanjali and Shubham for their performances.
The Governor extended his Diwali greetings to participants, parents, teachers, trainers and organisers, and called upon everyone to work towards a society where every individual receives respect, equal opportunities and the freedom to progress.
On the occasion, Gupta honoured Himachal Pradesh’s special athletes and coaches for their outstanding performances at international sporting events. He also visited an exhibition showcasing the activities and initiatives of various participating institutions.
Special Olympics Bharat president Malika Nadda said the organisation was committed to bringing persons with intellectual development disorder into the mainstream through the spirit of the ‘Inclusion Revolution’, founded on equality, unity and harmony.
She said the organisation provided children with special needs opportunities to showcase their talents through sports, education and health initiatives.
Highlighting India’s achievements, Nadda said Indian athletes had won 202 medals at the 2023 World Summer Games in Berlin, while the Indian contingent secured 33 medals at the 2025 World Winter Games in Italy.
(PTI News)
