Governor Shiv Pratap Shukla Honours Special Olympics Athletes from Himachal
Shimla, June 4:
Governor Shiv Pratap Shukla today honored Special Olympics athletes from Himachal Pradesh and emphasized the importance of recognizing their contributions and extending full support to ensure their holistic development. Addressing a felicitation ceremony organized by Special Olympics Bharat–Himachal Pradesh, the Governor said that both society and the government must come forward to support and encourage these athletes.
The event was held to honor athletes and coaches who represented India at the Special Olympics World Summer Games 2023 in Berlin, Germany, and those preparing to participate in the upcoming World Winter Games 2025 in Turin, Italy. A 49-member Indian contingent, including 30 athletes and 19 support staff, participated in the Berlin games, with 15 athletes hailing from Himachal Pradesh.
The Governor remarked that competitions are not merely about winning medals—they are about recognizing courage, determination, and commitment. These athletes have shown that with perseverance, hard work, and confidence, any challenge can be overcome. Their achievements have not only brought pride to the state and the nation but have also sent a powerful and inspiring message to society. He also praised the coaches whose patience, dedication, and belief in their athletes helped prepare them for international platforms.
Highlighting India’s impressive medal tally of 33 at the games, Governor Shukla said this success is proof that when talent is given the right opportunity, even the impossible becomes achievable. He acknowledged the vital role of the NHPC Sports Centre in training 15 athletes and 8 coaches from Himachal and commended the institution’s role in promoting a strong sports culture.
He also lauded Dr. Mallika Nadda, Chairperson of Special Olympics Bharat and the Asia Pacific Advisory Council, for initiating the movement from Bilaspur in 2002. He congratulated her on 23 years of dedicated work with Special Olympics Himachal Pradesh and on successfully organizing the first National Winter Games in Shimla and Narkanda in 2008.
Earlier in the event, the Governor felicitated the medal-winning athletes and their coaches. In her address, Dr. Mallika Nadda expressed pride in the athletes’ success, calling it a matter of national honor. She noted that approximately five percent of India’s population is specially-abled, with about one percent facing intellectual disabilities. She was pleased to highlight that 15 of the athletes at the Turin event came from Himachal. She also shared that, with support from NHPC, nine sports training centers have been established across the state, out of a total of 72 centers operating in India.
She thanked the Central Government for increasing the financial reward for medal winners from ₹5 lakh to ₹20 lakh, calling it a significant step in encouraging and recognizing their achievements.
Regional Director of Special Olympics Bharat–Himachal Pradesh, Parikshit Mahadoodia, shared detailed insights into the athletes’ accomplishments. The event was also attended by Mukesh Shukla, President of Special Olympics Bharat–Uttar Pradesh; Latika Sharma, Head of the Haryana unit; Dr. Sadhna Thakur; and Special Athlete Bharti.
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