Srinagar: District Development Commissioner, Srinagar Dr Syed Abid Rashid Shah Thursday inaugurated Wheel Chair Basket Ball Court for physically challenged persons at Bemina.
The play court was developed by J&K State Sports Council at an estimated cost of Rs. 35 lakh.
On the occasion, the DDC said it is the responsibility of the society to provide helping hand to specially-abled people. He further said the government is committed to providing opportunities to them in the various sectors so that these people can earn a dignified livelihood and, in the process, would contribute to society as well.
DDC said there is need to ensure that people with disabilities experience quality physical activity/sport. He highlighted the need for all stakeholders to work across structures and organizations in order to formulate and implement strategies that will ensure quality experiences in sport/physical activity for people with disabilities.
In addition to the aspects of sport, he said the social and health aspects of physical activity should be promoted. “Physical activity for everyone requires emphasis on all users having equitable access to community facilities,” he said and added community facilities must be sufficiently diverse to attract everyone.
DDC said in District Development Plan, he will pursue allocation of separate funds for physically and mentally challenged individuals of Srinagar. He also called upon the people of all classes and professions, including the corporate sector and affluent sections of the society, to come forward to ensure the development of people with disabilities and their employment.
In Thursday’s game, a total of 12 players participated among them six players will be selected for National Wheel Chair Basket Ball Championship to be organized by Wheel Chair Federation of India.
Later, DDC visited Shafqat Rehabilitation Centre and interacted with physically and mentally challenged persons especially children. He praised the efforts of Center for their noble work towards physically challenged individuals. He assured them that district administration will provide every possible help in the noble mission.
Divisional Sports Officer J&K Sports Council, Sports Coaches, Representatives of Basket Ball Association, members of Shafqat Rehabilitation Centre & Voluntary Medicare Society and other concerned officials were present on the occasion.
