Tripura, 15 Dec 2025: Chief Minister Prof. (Dr.) Manik Saha on Sunday inaugurated the Tripura Para Games 2025 at the Dasarath Deb Sports Complex, Badharghat, describing para-athletes as a symbol of courage, self-confidence, and indomitable spirit. He said physical limitations can never be a barrier to success, and the achievements of para-sportspersons stand as living proof of this truth.
Addressing the inaugural ceremony, the Chief Minister said that disability is not an obstacle; what matters most are mental strength, determination, and unity. “Regular practice helps an athlete reach their goal. Sports know no caste, religion, or colour—sports unite us,” he said. He added that sports not only enhance physical fitness but also build mental strength, discipline, and self-confidence.
Dr. Saha said the participation of para-athletes in competitive sports plays a crucial role in fostering an inclusive mindset in society. Referring to Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of ‘Khelo India’, he said that the Tripura government, in alignment with the national initiative, has been working to make sports accessible and inclusive through programmes such as ‘Khelo Tripura’.
The Chief Minister highlighted that special emphasis has been laid on providing training facilities, suitable sports infrastructure, modern equipment, and financial assistance for para-athletes. He noted that since its inception in 2023, the Tripura Para Games has been achieving greater success every year, and people across the state are increasingly recognising and appreciating para-sports.
He also pointed out that sports should remain free from politics and must always be given the highest priority. “Earlier, many goals remained unfulfilled. Today, the government understands the value of sports and respects sportspersons,” he said, adding that life often presents challenging situations, and moving forward with confidence and mental strength is the key to success.
The Chief Minister further stated that Tripura has made significant progress in recent years. “There was a time when Tripura had very little recognition. Today, due to the leadership and vision of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the Act East Policy and inclusive development approach have brought remarkable transformation to the Northeast, including Tripura,” he said. He urged athletes and guardians to build confidence and unity through sports and wished the Para Games every success.
Youth Affairs and Sports Minister Tinku Roy, speaking at the event, said that the Tripura Para Games was launched in 2023. To promote social inclusion of persons with disabilities, Unique Disability ID (UDID) cards are being issued, with over 43,000 cards distributed so far. He added that nearly 95 per cent of the beneficiaries have been covered, reflecting the government’s commitment to the holistic development of persons with disabilities.
Youth Affairs and Sports Secretary Dr. P. K. Chakraborty said that para-athletes from Tripura are now achieving success at the national level and that the future of sports in the state is bright. He said the state government has been playing an active role in strengthening the sports ecosystem.
Among others present at the programme were Social Welfare and Social Education Secretary Tapas Roy, Chief Administrator of Tripura Olympic Committee Anurag Singh, MLA Meena Rani Sarkar, Sports Department Director L. Darlong, Social Welfare Department Director Tapas Kumar Das, gymnasts and Olympians Deepa Karmakar and Dipa, and several other officials and dignitaries.
As part of the programme, meritorious students with disabilities at the secondary and higher secondary levels were felicitated. Assistive devices such as wheelchairs, hearing instruments, sports kits, certificates, and sports equipment were also distributed to para-athletes by the Chief Minister and other dignitaries.
