Says PM Modi's vision transforms divyangjan from 'Recipients of Sympathy’ into ‘Partners in Progress’

• Honours Himachal's special athletes, coaches for their outstanding performances at International sporting events
• Lauds Central Government for including Special Olympics Medal Winners in Cash Award Scheme since 2015
• Urges people to purchase, support products made by Special Children under ‘Vocal for Local’ initiative

SHIMLA -4 November, 2026-Governor Kavinder Gupta today called for collective efforts to build an inclusive society where persons with disabilities are provided equal opportunities, dignity and encouragement to realise their full potential.

The Governor was addressing a gathering on the occasion of Deepawali Fest 2026 – celebrating the Abilities of Special Children, organised by Special Olympics Bharat, Himachal Pradesh, at Sundernagar in Mandi district. He said that the outstanding performances of Himachal Pradesh's special athletes at international sporting events had brought laurels to the state and the country. Their achievements, he said, reflected the true spirit of determination, inclusion and excellence.

The Governor said that under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, inclusive development and social participation had been accorded special importance, with a clear emphasis on ensuring that no section of society was left behind. He lauded the decision of the central government to include Special Olympics medal winners in its cash award scheme for the first time in 2015, addressing a long-standing gap in the recognition of their sporting achievements. He said that the subsequent revision of the scheme in 2025 further reflected the union government's commitment to recognising and encouraging the talent of divyangjan.

He said that the Prime Minister had consistently emphasised that persons with disabilities deserved equal opportunities, dignity and encouragement rather than just sympathy. Platforms such as 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, the Governor congratulated Shalini, Anil Kumar, Aakriti, Giridhar and Hemchand for winning medals and appreciated Shivanjali and Shubham for their performances. He acknowledged the contribution of the NHPC in supporting sports centres in the State, which enabled seven athletes and four coaches from Himachal Pradesh to participate in the World Winter Games. He also appreciated the BBMB, coaches, institutions and families for their continued support in nurturing the athletes.

He appreciated the cultural performances presented by children associated with Chetna Sanstha, Sakar Special School, Sahyog Special School, CRC and other institutions. Referring to the Special Olympics Bharat message, 'Each One – Reach One', he urged families, educational institutions and citizens to actively contribute towards expanding the movement for inclusion.

The Governor extended his warm Diwali greetings to the 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, the Governor 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.

Referring to Prime Minister Narendra Modi's vision of 'Vocal for Local', the Governor urged people present on the occasion to purchase products displayed at the exhibition stalls and made by children with special needs. He said that supporting their creations would encourage their creativity, boost their confidence and promote economic self-reliance.

President, Special Olympics Bharat, Dr. Malika Nadda, said that the organisation was committed to bringing persons with intellectual development disorder into the mainstream through the spirit of the 'Inclusion Revolution', based on equality, unity and harmony. She said that Special Olympics Bharat provided children with special needs opportunities to showcase their talents through sports, education and health initiatives.

Highlighting India's achievements, Dr. Nadda informed that 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. She particularly highlighted Himachal Pradesh's contribution, stating that 15 of the 30 Indian athletes were from the State and had won 22 of the country's 33 medals. She also thanked the Ministry of Youth Affairs and sports for awarding a total of Rs. 2.56 crore to 28 athletes and emphasised the need to develop accessible sports infrastructure to encourage greater participation.

Chairman, Bhakra Beas Management Board (BBMB), Manoj Tripathi, gave a detailed account of the Board's activities, its contribution to the development of the state and its future plans.

President, Special Olympics Bharat, District Mandi Chapter, Shri Jagdish Rana, welcomed the Governor and briefed him about the programme.

Deputy Commissioner, Mandi, Apoorv Devgan, officers of BBMB and the district administration, and other prominent persons were also present on the occasion.