Himachal Pradesh Governor Honors Special Olympics Athletes for Global Achievements

Celebrating Special Olympics Athletes

On June 4, in Shimla, Himachal Pradesh, Governor Shiv Pratap Shukla recognized the remarkable achievements of athletes from Special Olympics Bharat who represented India at the World Winter Games in Turin, Italy (2025) and the World Summer Games in Berlin, Germany (2023).

The event celebrated 15 athletes from Himachal Pradesh who collectively earned 22 medals, comprising 10 gold, six silver, and six bronze, showcasing their talent and dedication on an international stage.

Attendees included Mallika Nadda, Chairperson of Special Olympics Bharat, along with various officials, coaches, and sports figures from across the nation.

Governor Shukla remarked, “This ceremony transcends mere medals; it embodies a celebration of courage, commitment, and resilience.”

He highlighted the significant role of sports in transforming lives, particularly for athletes with intellectual and developmental disabilities, asserting that they deserve equal recognition as any other athlete.

“Each athlete here represents a story of resilience, family support, and determination. This event marks a vital step towards inclusive recognition,” he added.

The Governor commended Special Olympics Bharat for its contributions and praised the dedication of coaches and trainers, stating, “I extend my heartfelt congratulations to the athletes, their families, and the entire Special Olympics Bharat team. Their commitment has not only brought glory to our nation but also inspired society with a message of ability beyond disability.”

He also acknowledged the Union Sports Ministry for increasing the prize money for medalists with disabilities, noting that gold medalists will now receive Rs 20 lakh, silver medalists Rs 14 lakh, and bronze medalists Rs 8 lakh. “This is a commendable initiative, and I express my gratitude to our Prime Minister and Sports Minister for this support,” he remarked.

In a heartfelt appeal, the Governor linked the ceremony to broader social issues, advocating for intensified efforts to combat drug addiction.

“Let sports serve as a means to eradicate drugs from our society,” he stated, referencing the ‘Khelega Himachal, Nasha Bhagao Abhiyan’ initiative in Arki as a model.

He urged all MLAs to take action against drug issues in their areas, asserting that if leaders commit, the youth will follow suit.

Governor Shukla also mentioned the need for strict anti-drug regulations in educational institutions, requesting the new Vice Chancellor of Himachal Pradesh University to expel any student found involved with drugs. “True change can only occur when communities take ownership,” he emphasized.

He noted that over 77 special athletes from Himachal Pradesh have participated in both the Summer and Winter World Games to date.

“We must continue this mission. Let us unite to foster an inclusive, drug-free, and empowered Himachal,” he concluded.

Mallika Nadda welcomed the Governor and praised the athletes’ performances, stating, “This ceremony honors those who represented India at the Winter Games in Italy and Summer Games in Germany. Out of 30 Indian athletes in Turin, 15 hailed from Himachal Pradesh, contributing to a total of 35 medals for the Indian contingent.”

She highlighted the extensive reach of Special Olympics Bharat, with teams operating in nearly 600 districts nationwide, aiming to build confidence and provide competitive opportunities for athletes with intellectual disabilities.

“Currently, we have 72 centers across India, including nine in Himachal Pradesh, supported by NHPC. These children are not inferior to anyone,” Nadda asserted.

Nadda also commended the Centre’s decision to raise prize money, calling it a significant encouragement that will help integrate more talented individuals into the mainstream.

In an emotional moment, several medal-winning athletes expressed their gratitude for the recognition. Aarushi, a Winter Games medalist, shared, “Receiving this honor means a lot to us; it motivates us and makes us feel valued.”

Nirmala, who secured gold in Alpine Skiing in Italy, expressed pride in her achievement, stating, “It feels amazing to be honored. I want to show others that we are just as capable. I will continue striving for more golds for my country.”

Riya Sharma, who earned a bronze medal in Floorball, remarked, “This platform has helped others see us with respect. Given the opportunity, we can achieve great things. We are equal to other children.”

Earlier, Parikshat Mehdudiya, Regional Director of Special Olympics Bharat (HP), briefed the Governor on the accomplishments of the state’s athletes and the growth of the movement in Himachal, noting its inception in 2002 in Bilaspur under Mallika Nadda’s leadership.

He highlighted the NHPC Sports Centre's crucial role, contributing 15 athletes and eight coaches to the national team. The first-ever Winter National Games in Himachal were hosted in Shimla and Narkanda in 2008.