🏅 Proud Moment for India!
Uttarpara: Once again, India’s national anthem echoed on foreign soil. The tricolour was hoisted, bringing pride to the country. This time, the moment was created by six para-athletes from West Bengal. Despite physical challenges, they achieved success at an international competition held in Australia.
From 14 to 25 March, the Special Olympics World Summer Games were held in Australia. Athletes from 88 countries participated. India won a total of 74 medals, of which six medals were won by athletes from West Bengal.
Among them, two gold medals were won by Maria Khatun and Rubina Khatun, two silver medals by Sumita and Sabri, and two bronze medals by Sharifa and Maria Akhtar. These athletes trained at a special school named “Agnipath”, located in Kanaipur, Hooghly district. The school works for the development of children with intellectual disabilities.
The athletes were felicitated on their return by various organizations and local residents. Teachers and trainers expressed pride in their achievements and said that these children have shown that disability is not a limitation.
Speaking about the athletes, officials said that with proper training and opportunity, persons with disabilities can excel in any field. The athletes underwent rigorous training for nearly a year before participating in the international event.
The families of the athletes also shared their struggles. Many parents are daily wage workers. For example, Maria’s mother works as a domestic help, earning very little. Despite financial hardship, they ensured their children attended training regularly.
Some athletes come from broken families, some live in extreme poverty, yet they never gave up. Their dedication, discipline, and hard work led them to international success.
Maria’s mother said, “We never imagined our child would go abroad and win a medal for the country. If you keep faith and work hard, everything is possible.”
This achievement has opened new opportunities for these athletes and has become a source of inspiration for many others with disabilities.
– Bansai Prochesta