We offer same facilities to all, there is no discrimination against para athletes: Haryana sports minister

In a conversation with HT, Haryana sports minister Anil vij said the government is constructing Paralympic Bhawan in Faridabad that will be exclusively for para-athletes. Here is the entire interview:

In a conversation with HT, Haryana sports minister Anil vij said the government is constructing Paralympic Bhawan in Faridabad that will be exclusively for para-athletes. Here is the entire interview:

Haryana sports minister Anil vij (Keshav Singh/HT Photo)

Sportspersons who make the country proud are not offered facilities to prepare for an event like the Paralympics?

We do support Paralympic sports and in fact we have been sending teams for the last few years. The policy is same for the para-athletes and regular athletes, but since these are highlighted we will ensure that they are treated equally as the monetary reward is the same. We offer the same kind of facilities for all, there is no discrimination at all. The way India has won recently, it has put the sport in a different light and I am sure developments will take place accordingly too.

What measures is the government planning to take to build proper infrastructure for such sportspersons?

We are constructing Paralympic Bhawan in Faridabad that will be exclusively for para-athletes. The infrastructure will be designed keeping their needs in mind. They will have lodging and other facilities too. We will aim to maintain the best standards and will constantly invite feedback and conduct regular inspections for smooth functioning.

Is the government planning to allocate separate funds to provide monetary benefits to such athletes?

Yes, we do have different funds for para athletes and there is lot in the pipeline that we are working on. Our district and state committee members will ensure their needs and demands are met.

Recently, differently abled sportspersons taking part in a national event had to bear with unfurnished and unhygienic accommodations. How do you think we can help avoid such situations?

We have formed a committee to ensure such incidents are not repeated. Such incidents help you prepare better for the future and hence even though they may not have been pleasant incidents, they are still relevant learning experiences.