Will Haryana Build a Stadium for Special Athletes?
Synopsis
Haryana's Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini announced plans for a dedicated stadium for special athletes, emphasizing the importance of inclusivity in sports. This initiative aims to provide athletes with disabilities the opportunities and facilities to succeed, reflecting a commitment to empowering all individuals through sports.
Key Takeaways
New stadium for athletes with disabilities announced.
Over 500 athletes participating in the championship.
Grants totaling Rs 52 lakh allocated for Special Olympics Bharat.
Focus on mental empowerment and leadership development.
Haryana is a hub of sports excellence .
Chandigarh, Feb 3 (NationPress) The Chief Minister of Haryana, Nayab Singh Saini, stated on Tuesday that the athletes competing in the Special Olympics convey a powerful message by triumphing over obstacles. He emphasized that with the right opportunities, training, and self-assurance, anyone can achieve “extraordinary success”.
Speaking at the opening ceremony of the Special Olympics Bharat Athletics National Championship at Maharshi Dayanand University (MDU) in Rohtak, the Chief Minister noted that over 500 athletes, along with their coaches and support staff from 26 states, are participating in this championship.
During the event, he announced that following Prime Minister Narendra Modi's vision for an “Accessible India”, a dedicated stadium for athletes with disabilities will be established in Haryana, which will also feature residential facilities.
Additionally, a financial grant of Rs 31 lakh was announced for Special Olympics Bharat by the Chief Minister, while Sports Minister Gaurav Gautam pledged an extra Rs 21 lakh.
Earlier, CM Saini laid the foundation stone for a Girls’ Sports Hostel at the Abhilasha Girls’ Hostel complex within MDU. This proposed hostel will accommodate 150 female students, spanning a total covered area of approximately 2,374 sq. m, with an estimated construction cost of Rs 5 crore.
In his address, CM Saini remarked that the true spirit of the Special Olympics is in recognizing sports as not just a competition for medals, but as a testament to the strength and potential of the human spirit. “The athletes competing here demonstrate that limitations are not found in the body, but in one's mindset. Alongside the national championship, we are also organizing health and medical camps, youth activation programs, and athlete leadership training,” he stated.
“These initiatives are designed to promote not only physical fitness but also mental empowerment and leadership skills. This is genuine inclusion, where athletes emerge not merely as medalists but as engaged citizens, role models, and sources of inspiration for society,” the Chief Minister added.
CM Saini highlighted that Haryana is a hub of sports excellence, having produced numerous Olympians and world champions, and particularly praised Special Olympics athlete Keshav Malik for his outstanding achievements.
Point of View
I believe this initiative by Haryana's government reflects a significant step towards inclusivity in sports. The establishment of a dedicated stadium for athletes with disabilities not only provides necessary facilities but also sends a powerful message about the importance of empowerment and support for all individuals, regardless of their challenges.
NationPress
11 May 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the purpose of the new stadium in Haryana?
The new stadium aims to provide a dedicated space for athletes with disabilities, ensuring they have the necessary facilities for training and competition.
Who is leading the initiative?
The initiative is led by Haryana's Chief Minister, Nayab Singh Saini, in alignment with the Prime Minister's vision of an Accessible India.
How many athletes are participating in the championship?
Over 500 athletes from 26 states are participating in the Special Olympics Bharat Athletics National Championship.
What additional support is being provided to Special Olympics Bharat?
A grant of Rs 31 lakh has been announced by the Chief Minister, along with an additional Rs 21 lakh from the Sports Minister.
What other facilities are being developed for athletes?
A Girls’ Sports Hostel is also being constructed at MDU, which will accommodate 150 female students.
