Suvarna Raj Named Delhi's State Commissioner for Persons with Disabilities

Suvarna Raj, a gold medalist at the Asian Para Games 2026, has been appointed as Delhi's State Commissioner for Persons with Disabilities. She expressed gratitude to Delhi's Chief Minister and Lieutenant Governor for the opportunity, aiming to enhance prospects for individuals with disabilities. In a recent interaction with Prime Minister Modi, she highlighted the importance of his support in motivating athletes. Raj is determined to elevate India's standing in future Para Games, aspiring to transform the nation's performance from fourth to first place within the next decade.

By Narendra Chaudhary Nov 6, 2026, 01:20 IST

Suvarna Raj's New Role

Para-athlete Suvarna Raj, who clinched gold in the women's discus throw F54 at the Asian Para Games 2026, has been appointed as the State Commissioner for Persons with Disabilities in Delhi. She expressed her heartfelt thanks to Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta and Lieutenant Governor Taranjit Singh Sandhu for this significant announcement. Following her victory at the Para Asian Games, the LG confirmed her selection for the role from a shortlist of three candidates put forward by the Search-cum-Selection Committee, after reviewing the committee's meeting notes and candidate records.

Aiming for New Opportunities

In a conversation after an event featuring Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the Indian contingent from the Para Asian Games, Suvarna Raj reiterated her gratitude towards the CM and LG. She emphasized her commitment to creating new opportunities for individuals with disabilities. "After winning my medal on October 22, the Delhi LG announced my appointment the very next day. Although I have yet to receive my official appointment letter, I am eager to make a difference over the next three years," she stated.

PM Modi's Support for Athletes

Suvarna Raj also shared her uplifting experience interacting with Prime Minister Modi, noting that his encouragement bolsters the resolve of athletes. During his meeting with the Indian contingent at the Indira Gandhi Sports Complex in New Delhi, PM Modi congratulated the para-athletes for their remarkable achievements in Aichi-Nagoya, where India finished fourth with a record haul of 114 medals.

Reflecting on the interaction, Suvarna Raj remarked, "It was an exhilarating experience. We were thrilled to meet him. I mentioned my involvement in the Accessible India Campaign (Sugamya Bharat Abhiyan). It was wonderful to see him engage with everyone."

She added, "When the Prime Minister supports you, it significantly boosts your determination. Knowing he stands with us inspires us to strive harder. From winning 14 medals in 2014 to 114 in 2016, his backing has been crucial. We finished fourth in the Asian Para Games 2026, and we aim to reach the top position within the next decade."