Special Olympics Bharat (SOB), Sikkim chapter is set to host Khelo India 2017-18 program at Sikkim to promote sports and the spirit of sportsmanship among differently abled people in the state. The main tournament will be held from March 27-30.
Special Olympics Bharat is an officially recognized programme of Special Olympics International which operates in India.
The district level games will commence from March 8 and training programmes for various community coaches are currently being held at each district.
Area Director for the Sikkim chapter of SOB, Dr BP Dhakal informed the media about the upcoming event and hoped it will bring about positive changes in the state.
“The scheme is a unique effort on the part of the Government of India to bring about major growth and development for people with disabilities. The initiative is a positive step towards ending major discrimination and reaffirms the Government’s strong policy for the upliftment of sports in the state.” said Dhakal.
The games will be held at all districts under the direct supervision of the State Sports Ministry. The selected students from all districts will go on to compete for state, national and international tournaments.
Venus such as Sirwani Secondary School for east district, Soreng Senior Secondary School for the west district and Phampam Junior High School for the north district and Manglay Junior High School for the south district has been chosen for the training programmes.
Around 200 students, including students living with disability are expected to participate in an array of games such as badminton, athletics, football, bocce ball and unified sports.
Most participants will be from the Spastic Society and children with special needs.
Dhakal appealed to members of public to come and be a part of the event and motivate the differently abled children for developing an inclusive and tolerant society.
Bhim Thatal, Human Resource Development Director and various other officials from the sports department were also present at the event.