For These Strong-Willed Men, Sky is The Limit
The National Dwarf Association of India officials have urged Central and State governments to help these differently-abled athletes, who have brought laurels both at national and international level.
More than 80 athletes from around the country participated in the National Dwarf Athletic Championship, which was held over the weekend at the Kanteerava Stadium in Bengaluru. (Read More in Other Sports)
The idea of conducting a National Dwarf Athletic Championship was to encourage the participation of these differently-abled sportspersons.
"I am an international sportsperson who has won the Ekalavya Award from the Karnataka state. These are the first national dwarf games," said an ecstatic athlete C V Rajanna.
"Our aim is this - why shouldn't dwarves participate internationally and get a good name for India? We can get medals - that is why we have organised these games. Other countries show a great deal of support for dwarves and help prepare them. That is not happening here. My dream is that I can train them and bring a name for the country," he added.
© NDTV
The organisers of the event felt that the Centre and State government should do more to recognize these athletes.
"Despite the fact our government -- state and central governments have not given them enough recognition, they have won laurels for the country. They have won so many medals in India and outside," Anand, who is the vice-president of the National Dwarf Association of India, told NDTV.
Anand said that these differently-abled athletes face numerous challenges, while looking for a job. Rajanna, echoed similar sentiments by saying that they at times were rejected for jobs as well.
"We come under the Paralympic, physically handicapped quota. Then they ask us for height - but we are short. What kind of job can we ask for? We should get what is due to us under the sports quota," felt Rajanna.
The sportspersons and their coaches hope events like this will make a positive difference. The sportspersons thanked the Karnataka state government and private sponsors for making this event a reality.
Ranjeet Kumar, who is the coach of the Tamil Nadu team, revealed they too go through rigorous training while preparing for any event, just like other athletes.
"My Tamil Nadu Team has five members and they take part in 100 metres, 200 metres, shot put, discus throw, javelin throw. There has been through three months coaching, so they are very ready. This is a good place for performance on this ground.
"This event organised by Dwarf Federation of India and the Karnataka Government has been superbly organised. All players have hotel accommodation, good food and even the transport facilities are also nice. So, India should conduct even more such events," he added.