In an unprecedented display of support and encouragement, the Paralympic Committee of India (PCI) and IndianOil Corporation Limited came together to empower and encourage the contingent of 309 athletes, including 196 male and 113 female athletes for the 4^th Asian Para Games to be held at Hangzhou, China, from 22-28 October 2023. The send-off ceremony was graced by Shri Hardeep Singh Puri, Minister of Petroleum and Natural Gas & Housing and Urban Affairs, Shri Anurag Singh Thakur, Minister of Youth Affairs & Sports and information & Broadcasting, Shri Shrikant Madhav Vaidya, Chairman, IndianOil and senior officials of PCI.

On the occasion, the Memorabilia jerseys were presented to the dignitaries by Flagbearers of Indian Contingent to the Asian Para Games.

In his address, Shri Hardeep Singh Puri, expressed his resounding support for India's para-athletes, saying, "This contingent of 309 athletes, including 196 men and 113 women, is a testament to the indomitable spirit of our para-sports stars. Their determination, passion, and talent know no bounds. As they embark on this monumental journey, they carry with them the aspirations of a nation. This send-off ceremony is our way of saying we believe in you, and we are confident that you will create history in the 4th Asian Para Games."

 

Shri Anurag Singh Thakur shared his admiration, stating, "These athletes exemplify the true essence of sportsmanship and dedication. Their journey is a source of inspiration for all, highlighting that with determination and hard work, one can achieve anything. As a government, we stand firmly behind them and are excited to see them make India proud."

Shri Shrikant Madhav Vaidya, Chairman, IndianOil spoke about company’s commitment to extraordinary talent and said, "IndianOil is proud to lead inclusivity in sports, championing India's para-athletes and supporting their journey which is a testament to determination and human resilience. For IndianOil, supporting these extraordinary athletes aligns with our value of 'Nation-First’”.

In a remarkable feat, India will participate in seventeen disciplines, including five sports — Canoe, Blind Football, Lawn Bowls, Rowing, and Taekwondo — for the very first time. The send-off ceremony celebrated these athletes and instilled them with encouragement and determination as they prepare to etch their names in the annals of history.

Dr. Deepa Malik, President of the Paralympic Committee of India and an Asian Games medallist herself, expressed her gratitude for the overwhelming support, stating, "The path these athletes have walked has been filled with dedication, unwavering determination, and countless hours of hard work. Their participation in the 4th Asian Para Games is a testament to their unbreakable spirit and the support of IndianOil, the government, and all well-wishers who have been by their side."

Shri Gursharan Singh, Secretary General of the Paralympic Committee of India, delivered a powerful message to the athletes, saying, "This send-off ceremony is not just a farewell; it is a celebration of your strength, courage, and determination. You are not only representing India; you are carrying the hopes and dreams of millions with you. Let your performance at the 4th Asian Para Games be a shining example of the indomitable spirit of Indian athletes."

The historic performance by Indian contingent of winning 107 medals at the just concluded Asian Games has fuelled the athletes, coaches and the support staff with a belief that the 4^th Asian Para Games will break many records and will be the most successful one in the history of Para Games in the country. As India's 309 para-athletes prepare to embark on their journey to the 4th Asian Para Games, the entire nation stands firmly behind them. With the backing of the Indian Oil Corporation, the government, and the Paralympic Committee of India, these athletes are poised to make history, inspire others, and make India proud.

 

RKJ/M

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