Team Herald
sports@herald-goa.com
PANJIM: Karnataka claimed the overall team championship at the 24th National Para Swimming Championships demonstrating remarkable talent and teamwork throughout the event at the SAG Swimming Pool, Campal, here, on Tuesday.
Their athletes excelled across multiple categories, earning recognition for their perseverance and dedication. This victory reinforces Karnataka's status as a frontrunner in para-sports in India.
A special recognition was given to Satendra from Gwalior, who, though not an individual winner, has made India proud with his Padma Shri Award, further solidifying his legacy in para-swimming.
The notable winners were: Men’s Senior Individual Champion - Mohammad Assim from Kerala,
Men’s Junior Champion - Ravi Karthik Bhavani from Andhra Pradesh, Men’s Sub-Junior Champion -Revansh from Haryana, Women’s Senior Champion - Sharyna S from Karnataka, Women’s Junior Champion - Saee Pujari from Maharashtra and Women’s Sub-Junior Champion - Abha Ganesh from Maharashtra.
Devendra Jhajharia, a distinguished paralympian and Padma Shri Awardee was honored for his significant contributions to Indian sports. In response, Jhajharia commended the sports community in Goa particularly emphasising the tireless efforts of Guruprasad Pawaskar, the State Commissioner for Persons with Disabilities, who has been a strong advocate for inclusivity and the empowerment of Persons with Disabilities (PwDs).
Chief Minister Pramod Sawant graced the closing ceremony along with other dignitaries Minister for Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities Subhash Phal Dessai, Sports Minister Govind Gaude, State Commissioner for Persons with Disabilities Guruprasad Pawaskar, Aldona MLA Adv Carlos Ferreira, Office of State State Commissioner for Persons with Disabilities Secretary Taha Haziq and other officials.
In his address, Sawant highlighted the State’s ongoing efforts to promote inclusivity. He said, “Over the past two years, Goa has been tirelessly dedicated to empowering individuals with disabilities, with the unwavering support of the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment. Our commitment to a ‘Fit Goa, Skill Goa, Inclusive Goa’ remains strong.”
He went on to express his vision for the future of para-swimming in Goa, stating, “We aim to have at least 10 para-swimmers from Goa representing India at the Los Angeles Paralympics.”
Phal Dessai remarked, “Goa has emerged as a model State for inclusive sports events. We aim to organise many more such events and establish Goa as a leader in transforming the lives of Persons with Disabilities. This sentiment reflects the impactful efforts being made to uplift para-athletes, further establishing Goa as a pioneer in inclusive sporting initiatives.”
The 24th National Para Swimming Championships was organised by the Department for Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities, Office of the State Commissioner for Persons with Disabilities in collaboration with the Paralympic Committee of India and the Sports Authority of Goa.
The three-day event showcased an inspiring display of talent, determination, and sportsmanship, with over 500 athletes representing 28 States.