Specially-abled girl cyclists Manimeghlai and Shruti from SOS Children’s Villages of India, Khajuri Kalan, Bhopal, again won gold and silver medals, respectively, in 500 metre at Special Olympics World Summer Games, in Abu Dhabi, in March this year. They continue to carry the twinkle of shining bright, in their eyes.
They impart hope to many others, not just at their SOS India Family but too many of their likes across the country.
To reinforce the meaning of inclusiveness amongst the society, encourage children of all kinds of abilities and raise awareness for the specially-abled children, SOS Children’s Villages of India Khajuri Kalan, hosted a sports and cultural event in association with the Department of Social Justice and Disability Empowerment, Bhopal, on the occasion of United Nations International Day of Persons with Disabilities (December 3).
The event was flagged off in the presence of Sandeep Rajak, Commissioner Disability Madhya Pradesh, Chief Guest for the occasion, Sudarshan Suchi, Secretary General, SOS India, dignitaries from the Government and SOS India family.
The event witnessed an overwhelming response from the special children and guests, who voiced support to the cause while talking about the dire need to mobilise support and resources for the dignity, rights, and well-being of children with disabilities.
To mark the World Disability Day or International Day of Persons with Disabilities, over 30 children from SOS India Khajuri Kalan participated in different sports. Besides, young and specially-abled children performed some of the mesmerising cultural activities like dance and songs.The highlight of the day was felicitation of Special Olympic Champions Mani Meghalai and Shruti for winning gold and silver medals respectively in 500 metre event and previous Olympic Medallists, followed by a special address by Sudarshan Suchi.
While applauding the special champions, Sudarshan said, "SOS India is proud of its special daughters who represented India in the Special Olympics games. Our specially-abled children are defeating physical and intellectual limitations to make a difference, and making the country proud".
He further added, “We, at SOS India, provide full support to the abandoned children with an inclusive ecosystem in a family-like environment in our villages, towards the realisation of their true potential.”