PANAJI
With an eye on providing a platform for talented sportspersons with disabilities and regular scientific training on par with international standards to nurture their sports-specific talent to excel at the national and international level, the State government has introduced a scheme for Sports for Differently Abled Children of Special Schools in Goa.
As per the scheme, annually one mega sports event for persons with disabilities will be organised by the Sports Authority of Goa (SAG). The government has earmarked an annual amount of Rs 48 lakh which can be spent mainly on the organisation of such sports events.
Only the students with disabilities studying in special schools can participate in the meet.
Former chief minister late Manohar Parrikar in his 2017 Budget speech in the Goa Legislative Assembly announced the promotion of Sports for Special Children.
Subsequently, the first and second State Level Sports competitions for the Special School Children in various sports disciplines for the
year 2017-18 and 2018-2019 was held. Thousands of children from special schools participated.
The intellectually impaired, hearing impaired, visually impaired students can participate in sports disciplines such as Athletics, Ringo Stick, Badminton, Swimming, Basketball, Table-Tennis, Bocce, Volleyball, Football.
The scheme will help in preparing special children to participate in national games and even Paralympics.
