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The recent announcement of the Khel Ratna award recipients has sparked a conversation about the representation of para-athletes in India's highest sporting honor. Praveen Kumar, a deserving recipient, expressed his sentiment that a greater number of para-athletes should have been recognized. This highlights a larger issue within the Indian sporting landscape, one that underscores the ongoing struggle for equal recognition and opportunities for athletes with disabilities. The Khel Ratna, India's highest sporting award, signifies the pinnacle of achievement in athletic excellence. While the inclusion of Praveen Kumar is a step forward, it also underscores the disparity in recognition between able-bodied and para-athletes. The fact that only one para-athlete received this prestigious award, alongside three able-bodied athletes, suggests a need for a more inclusive approach to celebrating athletic achievement in India.
The inclusion of Manu Bhaker, D Gukesh, and Harmanpreet Singh alongside Praveen Kumar is not meant to diminish their outstanding accomplishments. Their achievements are indeed remarkable, reflecting years of dedication, training, and unwavering commitment to their respective sports. However, their presence alongside a single para-athlete serves to further emphasize the lack of parity in recognition. This discrepancy is not solely a matter of numbers; it represents a systemic issue that needs to be addressed at multiple levels. The selection process for the Khel Ratna, the criteria used, and the overall approach to identifying and rewarding exceptional athletes need careful evaluation. Is the current system adequately capturing the achievements of para-athletes, considering the unique challenges they overcome to achieve excellence?
The challenges faced by para-athletes often extend beyond the physical limitations. They frequently encounter difficulties in accessing adequate training facilities, resources, and financial support. The societal perception of disability also plays a significant role, sometimes resulting in a lack of recognition and appreciation for their exceptional achievements. The fight for equality in sports is not merely about equal representation in award ceremonies but about creating a truly inclusive sporting ecosystem. This includes providing equal access to training, resources, and opportunities. It also involves fostering a culture of appreciation and respect for the incredible talent and determination displayed by para-athletes. The government, sporting federations, and the media all have a crucial role to play in promoting this inclusive approach.
Looking ahead, there's a need for proactive measures to ensure greater representation of para-athletes in national awards. This could involve developing more transparent and inclusive selection criteria for awards like the Khel Ratna, taking into account the unique challenges faced by para-athletes. Furthermore, increased funding and support for para-sports are essential to fostering a more level playing field. Investing in infrastructure, training programs, and coaching can help para-athletes reach their full potential and be better positioned for national and international recognition. A comprehensive review of current policies and initiatives related to para-sports is needed to identify areas for improvement and implement effective strategies for promoting greater inclusion and equity.
The statement by Praveen Kumar is not just a personal observation; it reflects a broader sentiment within the para-athletic community. It serves as a wake-up call for all stakeholders involved in Indian sports to address the existing inequalities and work towards a more inclusive and equitable system. The journey towards true equality in sports requires a concerted effort from multiple parties, and it is a journey that needs to be taken seriously. The success of Indian sports depends not only on the achievements of individual athletes but also on the creation of an environment where every athlete, regardless of their physical abilities, has the opportunity to reach their full potential and receive the recognition they deserve.
Source: Would have been nice to see more para-athletes get Khel Ratna: Praveen Kumar