“Winning medals is not important, participation is.” – Padma Shree Yogeshwar Dutt

“Winning medals is not important, participation is.” – Padma Shree Yogeshwar Dutt

Sampurna actively networked with Special Olympics Bharat in organizing a Health screening camp under Azadi ka Amrit Mahotsav initiative in Asha Kiran, Rohini.

Special Olympics Bharat, a recognized National Sports Federation, under the Ministry of Youth Affairs & Sports, works for the development of sports and other life skills of children and adults with Intellectual Disability through Sports. To provide the best sporting experience, Special Olympics screens and provide follow-up care in six health disciplines such as eye care, oral Health, hearing, feet, fitness, and nutrition.

The camp started at 8 am in the morning and went on for 8 hours till 4 pm. More than 900 individuals including children and adults were screened out of which 474 were males and 483 were females. Their eyes, teeth, bones and general health features were checked. There were volunteers present on scene to assist the athletes in getting their health check-up done. Tshirts and refreshments were also provided to them.

Padma Shree Yogeshwar Dutt, Indian Freestyle wrestler graced the occasion as the chief guest. He encouraged the participating athletes and expressed that participation is more important than winning medals. He also said that these intellectually challenged individuals who are considered weak in the eyes of the society are not weak at all. In fact, people who are well from mind have no goodness in their hearts to help others, he said.

Smt Babita Phogat, Indian Wrestler was also present as Chief Guest. She appreciated the efforts and said that she would love to participate in such programs which encourage people to take part in sports.

Return to Play is a campaign to bring their athletes back to the sports field after their prolonged absence from the field due to Covid19. As such, the screening would prove beneficial to ensure that they are fit to participate in sports after a long hiatus. Under this program, 750 sports centres will also be set up across India for these athletes where the athletes will be trained.

This event was supported by local NGO Sampurna. Dr Shobha Vijender, Founder President Sampurna along with 20 volunteers were also present.

Dr Shobha Vijender said that these kinds of programs should be held regularly to support the overall development of children as well as adults. She expressed that she was happy to be part of such initiatives.