Lucknow, Sep 14 (IANS): The newly formed UP Special Olympics Committee will introduce disability-friendly sports equipment in select government residential schools across Uttar Pradesh.

Social Welfare Minister, Asim Arun, underlined the importance of inclusive development and said: “We should conduct a survey of several government residential schools in the state and identify five or six where disability-friendly sports equipment can be installed so athletes can access them if they need to. The Social Welfare Department will provide assistance for this initiative.”

Additionally, he confirmed plans to establish a committee office in Lucknow at the earliest.

In preparation for the 2025 Special Olympics, the UP Special Olympics Committee, operating under the Social Welfare Department, outlined their plans and objectives for the next eighteen months.

The committee comprises key officials -- including President Mohit Shukla, Vice-President Nanda.

President Mohit Shukla expressed his dedication to the cause, stating, “The work we are undertaking serves as a tribute to the messengers of God. Our efforts can only lead to progress.”

He also revealed the committee’s aspiration to host the 2027 Special Olympics in Lucknow.

Furthermore, Shukla announced that several new board members had pledged Rs 1 lakh each to establish an initial fund for the committee’s activities in various districts. He also discussed the creation of a helpline service to address queries related to especially-abled individuals, encompassing sports, health, and other concerns.

Jitendra Mishra, the committee’s intellectual disability expert, committed to forming teams of experts, special educators, and parents for every district within the next three months, said: “We will establish 12 to 15 sports camps for especially abled individuals across the state in this timeframe.”

Vice-President Nanda also announced plans for health screening camps for the athletes and their families.