New Delhi, March 5: Union Sports Minister Mansukh Mandaviya expressed optimism on Wednesday that India would break its previous record for the highest gold medal count as the nation’s athletes prepare to participate in the Special Olympics World Winter Games, set to take place in Turin, Italy, from March 7 to 17.
A robust contingent of 49 members, including 30 special athletes, is representing India at the Winter Games. The last edition of these games was held in 2017 in Austria, where Indian athletes brought home 73 medals, with 37 of them being gold.
The athletes will engage in six disciplines: alpine skiing, cross-country skiing, floorball, short track speed skating, snowboarding, and snowshoeing.
“I am witnessing remarkable enthusiasm among these athletes. In the previous Special Olympics World Winter Games, India secured 37 gold medals, and I am confident we will achieve even greater success this time,” Mandaviya stated during a send-off ceremony at the Dhyan Chand National Stadium.
“I extend my deep respect to the parents of these athletes and Special Olympics Bharat, who have supported them in reaching this milestone. These athletes are incredibly special to us, as their achievements are not something everyone can accomplish,” the minister remarked.
“You serve as an inspiration to the entire nation.” The Sports Authority of India (SAI) conducted 11 national coaching camps in various cities, including Chandigarh, Narkanda, New Delhi, Gwalior, Noida, and Gurgaon, to adequately prepare the athletes.
Furthermore, SAI provided essential training and competition equipment, while the ministry allocated funds for airfare, accommodation, and other necessities for the contingent’s participation in the games.
Mallika Nadda, president of Special Olympics Bharat, praised the ministry for increasing the prize money allocated for medal-winning athletes at the Special Olympics World Games.
“I express my gratitude to the ministry for this significant enhancement. A gold medalist will now receive Rs 20 lakh, up from Rs 5 lakh previously; a silver medalist will earn Rs 14 lakh, while a bronze medalist will be awarded Rs 8 lakh,” Nadda stated.
She further urged the minister to launch Khelo India Special Games, similar to the Khelo India Para Games. “I would be thankful if Khelo India Special Games could be initiated, mirroring the Khelo India Para Games,” she added. (PTI)
