PM Modi Applauds Indian Athletes’ Breakthrough Success at the Special Olympics Winter Games – Join the Celebration!

March 18, 2025: Special Olympics Bharat warmly welcomed Indian athletes back from the 2025 Special Olympics World Winter Games in Turin, Italy. This remarkable team of 30 athletes and 19 support staff brought home 33 medals—8 gold, 18 silver, and 7 bronze—in six sports including alpine skiing and snowboarding.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed pride in their achievements, sharing photos with the athletes on social media. He tweeted his admiration, celebrating their impressive medal haul and their contribution to the nation’s glory.

The welcome ceremony at Major Dhyan Chand National Stadium was a festive occasion, attended by key figures like the Minister of State for Youth Affairs and Sports, Raksha Khadse, and Mallika Nadda, President of Special Olympics Bharat. Bharti, a standout athlete who won two gold medals, joined them on stage to share in the celebration.

To honor the athletes’ hard work, the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports has increased cash prizes for medalists. Gold winners will receive ₹20 lakh, while silver and bronze medalists will take home ₹14 lakh and ₹8 lakh, respectively.

This event highlights the incredible determination of athletes with intellectual disabilities and emphasizes the power of sports to foster inclusion. Their success is not just about medals; it inspires many and encourages support for athletes facing similar challenges.

While the achievements of these athletes are commendable, they also reflect a broader trend in sports. According to a recent study from the National Council on Disability, participation in events like the Special Olympics can significantly improve the self-esteem and social skills of participants. The influence of social media also plays a vital role in spreading awareness about inclusion. Tweets and posts celebrating these athletes are trending, as people from all walks of life come together to support and recognize their accomplishments.

This year’s games were a reminder of the strength found in diversity and the potential within all athletes, proving that with the right support and opportunities, barriers can be overcome.



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