Puri asks PSUs to boost initiatives to promote sports for para-athletes

Inaugurates 6th ONGC Para Games in New Delhi, Highlights Government's Commitment to Inclusive Sports​

Union Minister of Petroleum and Natural Gas Hardeep Singh Puri called upon India's oil public sector undertakings (PSUs) to intensify their support and promotion of sports activities specifically aimed at para-athletes. The minister emphasized this point during his speech at the inauguration ceremony of the 6th ONGC Para Games, held at Thyagaraj Stadium in New Delhi on Friday.

Highlighting the significance of para-sports, Minister Puri lauded the achievements of Indian para-athletes, noting their commendable performances on global platforms. At the recently concluded 2024 Paralympic Games in Paris, India achieved a historic milestone, securing a total of 29 medals, including seven gold, nine silver, and 13 bronze medals.

"Sports is a special area of focus for the Modi-led government," Minister Puri said. "I urge companies to further step up their efforts in taking up such initiatives, which promote sports and social inclusion."

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ONGC Reaffirms Commitment to Para-Sports​

Welcoming the participants, Arun Kumar Singh, Chairman and CEO of Oil and Natural Gas Corporation (ONGC), reiterated the company's unwavering support for para-athletes. Singh emphasized ONGC's dedication to creating platforms that enable athletes with special abilities to showcase their talents and achieve excellence.

"We honour the power of sports and the extraordinary accomplishments of our para-athletes. I urge all participants to compete with true sportsmanship and cherish the experience," Singh stated.

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Over 350 Athletes Compete from Leading Oil and Gas PSUs​

The 6th ONGC Para Games has drawn participation from more than 350 para-athletes representing prominent oil and gas PSUs, including ONGC, Indian Oil Corporation Ltd (IOCL), Bharat Petroleum Corporation Ltd (BPCL), Hindustan Petroleum Corporation Ltd (HPCL), Gas Authority of India Ltd (GAIL), and Engineers India Ltd (EIL).

Participants will compete across various sports disciplines, including athletics, badminton, and table tennis. The three-day event serves as a testament to the collective efforts of India's energy sector in promoting inclusivity through sports.