The 24th National Para Athletics Championship concluded on a high note at the iconic Kalinga Stadium, bringing together the country’s finest para-athletes in a celebration of resilience, talent, and sporting excellence.
Gracing the closing ceremony, Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi lauded the successful organisation of the championship and the spirit displayed by athletes from across India.
In his address, the Chief Minister highlighted both the scale and significance of the event: “The 24th National Para Athletics Championship has been successfully organised. A total of 1,460 para-athletes from 28 states participated. Around 40 athletes from Odisha also took part. My best wishes are with all the athletes.”
He went on to underline Odisha’s growing stature in global sports: “We are fortunate that India will host the World Indoor Athletics Championship in 2028 at Kalinga Stadium in Bhubaneswar. Today, we can proudly say that Odisha has earned a respectable place in the world of sports.”
His remarks reflected both pride and vision—linking grassroots participation to global ambition.
Numbers That Tell the Story
The championship was one of the largest para sporting events in the country, featuring over 1,400 athletes competing across multiple disciplines.
The scale of participation not only showcased the depth of para talent in India but also reinforced Bhubaneswar’s reputation as a reliable host for major sporting events.
Odisha’s Performance and Promise
The host state fielded a 40-member contingent and delivered a commendable performance, securing multiple medals and holding its own against traditionally strong states.
For Odisha, however, the bigger takeaway goes beyond medals. The successful of such a large-scale championship reflects the state’s growing investment in sports infrastructure, athlete development, and inclusive sporting platforms.
Beyond Medals: A Message of Resilience
During the ceremony, the Chief Minister also struck an emotional chord, reminding athletes that true victory lies in overcoming life’s challenges—something para-athletes embody every day.
The championship, in that sense, was not just about podium finishes, but about stories of perseverance, determination, and inspiration.
Eyes on the Global Stage
Perhaps the most significant takeaway from the event was Odisha’s forward-looking vision. With Bhubaneswar set to host the World Indoor Athletics Championships 2028, the state is positioning itself as a global sporting hub.
From hosting hockey World Cups to national athletics events, Odisha has steadily built a reputation for delivering world-class sporting experiences. The upcoming global event could mark its biggest leap yet.
A Defining Moment for Odisha Sports
As the curtains fell on the championship, one message stood clear: Odisha is no longer just participating in India’s sporting journey—it is helping shape it.
With strong administrative backing, world-class venues, and a growing culture of sports excellence, the state is firmly on track to becoming one of India’s—and perhaps Asia’s—leading sporting destinations.
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