India may be represented by a strong 255-member contingent on the Special Olympics World Summer Games to be held in Berlin, Germany from June 17 to 25.
The contingent comprises 198 athletes, who will participate in 16 disciplines, and unified companions and 57 coaches.
The Special Olympics World Games are the world’s largest inclusive sporting event for people with psychological disabilities.
A whole of 700 athletes and unified companions all through 190 nations will compete in 26 disciplines in Berlin.
Before their departure for Berlin on June 12, the Indian athletes will participate in a preparatory camp on the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium from June 7 to 11.
Special Olympics Bharat will even organise a specific send-off ceremony for the contingent on the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium on Thursday, which may be attended by Sports Minister Anurag Thakur, Women and Child Development and Minority Affairs Minister Smriti Irani, Indian Olympic Association chief PT Usha, cricketer Yuvraj Singh and singer Sonu Nigam, amongst others.
Leading social activist and Special Olympics Bharat chairperson Mallika Nadda expects India to return with a strong medal haul from Berlin.
“The competition part comes later, firstly it is all about participation. I expect over 150 medals from our athletes in the Special Olympics World Summer Games,” talked about Nadda, who may also be the partner of BJP president JP Nadda.
Nadda moreover urged the oldsters to help the actual athletes to help them flip into a part of mainstream society.
“They want dignity of life and sports help them get that. I urge everyone to help the in their endeavour. I also request state governments to recognise their hardwork and efforts by honouring them with cash awards and jobs for their achievements,” she talked about.
She lauded the sports activities actions ministry’s endeavour to honour specific athletes with cash awards of Rs 5 lakh, Rs 3 lakh and Rs 2 lakh respectively for worthwhile gold, silver and bronze medals in worldwide events.
