Agartala: Dec 16: Like in previous years, the state-level Khelo Tripura Para Games will be held this year as well. The event will take place on December 18 and 19 at Vivekananda Maidan in the capital, Agartala. The opening ceremony of the games will be inaugurated by Chief Minister Dr. Manik Saha on December 18. This announcement was made by the state’s Minister of Social Welfare and Social Education, Tinku Roy, during a press conference at the Secretariat on Monday.
Minister Roy explained that the primary purpose behind organizing such an event is to encourage differently-abled children to take part in sports and to raise awareness about various government schemes aimed at them. He also mentioned that social benefits would be provided to eligible individuals by the Social Welfare and Social Education Department.
So far, 2,779 applications have been submitted for disability allowances. These beneficiaries will receive their social benefits at Vivekananda Maidan on December 18, along with wheelchairs and other necessary items. According to central government rules, individuals with 80% disability are eligible for disability allowances. However, the state government has extended this benefit to those with disabilities of 60% or more. Over 15,000 differently-abled individuals are currently receiving social benefits in the state.
Additionally, 10 outstanding differently-abled students will be awarded financial prizes during the event. The Khelo Tripura Para Games will feature 14 events, including cricket, football, chess, shot put, running, long jump, musical chair, and wheelchair racing. On December 19, winners will be awarded prizes. Special Olympics India’s Mallika Nadda will also attend the event.
A team of doctors from Delhi will be present to provide medical assistance to differently-abled children. Minister Roy also encouraged the public to support and inspire differently-abled individuals to move forward in life. He proudly stated that Tripura is the only state in India where over four lakh people receive social benefits based on population size, and the benefits are credited to their bank accounts every month in the first week.
