Ghaziabad : With great enthusiasm and inclusivity, the Special Olympics Bharat Uttar Pradesh State Games 2025 was inaugurated on July 5 at Divya Jyoti Group of Institutions, Modinagar. The grand opening ceremony witnessed the participation of 500 special student-athletes from across various districts of Uttar Pradesh, who impressed spectators with a vibrant march past and spirited display of sporting talent.
Narendra Kashyap, Minister for Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities in the Uttar Pradesh Government, graced the occasion as Chief Guest, while Asim Arun, Minister of Social Welfare (Independent Charge) and former senior police officer, presided over the ceremony as Program Chairperson.
In his address, Minister Kashyap reiterated the government’s strong commitment to the welfare and empowerment of persons with disabilities. “Events like these boost confidence and offer a sense of identity and inclusion to our special children,” he stated.
Chairperson Asim Arun emphasized the power of sports as a tool for social inclusion, lauding the courage and passion of the participating athletes. Mukesh Shukla, President of Special Olympics Bharat (U.P.), noted that special athletes from the state have been making remarkable strides at both national and international levels, and events like this serve to energize their journey further.
Ritik Jassar, representing Divya Jyoti Group of Institutions, played a key role in coordinating the event logistics and hospitality.
The games featured an array of sporting events including handball, basketball, football, golf, futsal, bocce, lawn tennis, table tennis, and judo. Beyond athletic achievement, the event promoted the values of sportsmanship, inclusivity, and equal opportunity, marking a significant step towards a more accepting and united society.
