ONGC Para Games 2023: A Platform for Inclusivity and Sportsmanship

The 7th edition of the ONGC Para Games has commenced at Thyagaraj Stadium, gathering around 300 para athletes from eight public sector undertakings. This four-day event, organized by ONGC, aims to promote inclusivity and equal opportunities in sports. With competitions in various disciplines such as Athletics, Badminton, and Swimming, the Games highlight the capabilities of specially-abled individuals. Key figures from ONGC emphasized the importance of these initiatives in fostering a more inclusive society. The event also features participation from renowned para athletes, inspiring all attendees. Join us in celebrating this remarkable showcase of talent and determination.

By Narendra Chaudhary Feb 26, 2026, 16:38 IST

Inauguration of the 7th ONGC Para Games

The Thyagaraj Stadium hosted the opening of the 7th ONGC Para Games on Thursday, uniting approximately 300 para athletes from eight public sector oil and gas companies for a four-day event focused on inclusivity in sports.

Objectives of the Games

Organized by the Oil and Natural Gas Corporation (ONGC), the Para Games aim to foster accessibility and equal opportunities within the oil and gas public sector undertakings. Athletes from BPCL, EIL, GAIL, HPCL, IOCL, MRPL, OIL, and ONGC are participating in this year's event, as highlighted in a recent press release.

Advocating for Inclusiveness

During his address as the chief guest, Pankaj Kumar, Director (Production) at ONGC, emphasized the importance of initiatives like the Para Games in promoting inclusivity and equal opportunities for all. He noted that all oil and gas PSUs are dedicated to uplifting specially-abled individuals, contributing to a more inclusive society.

Diverse Sports and High Engagement

This year's games feature a variety of competitions, including Athletics, Badminton, Table Tennis, Swimming, and Wheelchair Racing, catering to multiple para sport classifications such as Hearing and Speech Impairment, Upper and Lower Limb conditions, Visual Impairment, and Wheelchair categories. Notably, Athletics has seen the highest level of participation this year.

Celebrating Abilities

Manish Patil, Director (HR) at ONGC, remarked that sports adapt to individual needs and play a crucial role in fostering inclusivity. He encouraged participants to focus on their capabilities rather than limitations, celebrating their achievements.

The event also features participation from renowned national and international para athletes, whose inspiring journeys motivate all attendees.

Encouragement from Leadership

Rajarshi Gupta, Managing Director of ONGC Videsh Ltd (OVL), expressed that the participants inspire courage and motivation to push boundaries. He urged everyone to embrace the experience and learn from the determination displayed by the athletes.

Continuing the Tradition

The previous edition of the games also saw over 300 para athletes from eight PSUs, showcasing the ongoing commitment to institutionalizing this initiative within the sector.