Sports Minister Mansukh Mandaviya inaugurated the second edition of the Khelo India Para Games on Thursday, commending para-athletes for their resilience in overcoming numerous challenges. The Games, which will conclude on March 27, feature over 1,300 athletes, including notable participants such as Paris Paralympics gold-medallist archer Harvinder Singh and Khel Ratna-winning high jumper Praveen Kumar.
During the opening ceremony, Mandaviya expressed his admiration for the determination of the athletes, stating, “I see the fire in their eyes, I see the belief. It is indeed in the right direction.” He emphasized the importance of the Khelo India initiative in showcasing the talents of para-athletes and boosting national pride.
Highlighting India’s successful performance at the Paris Paralympics, where the country secured 29 medals, Mandaviya noted, “These athletes may have seen something taken away from them, but they have never let it stop them.” He conveyed his best wishes to all competitors, officially declaring the Khelo India Para Games 2025 open.
The event commenced with the ceremonial passing of the Games torch, carried by renowned athletes including bronze-medallist sprinter Simran Sharma and gold-winning shuttler Nitesh Kumar. Union Minister of Social Justice and Empowerment Virendra Kumar also attended the inauguration, underscoring the significance of the Games in promoting inclusivity and recognition of para-sports in India.
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