By Maksuda Lisa (Dhaka Bureau)
Disability is not a limitation; given equal opportunity, athletes with special needs can bring home the greatest honors for their country. Driven by this philosophy, the Bangladesh government has announced major initiatives to transform para-sports at the national level.
To ensure international-standard training, infrastructure, and financial security, State Minister for Youth and Sports Md. Aminul Haque announced plans to construct a state-of-the-art Para Sports Complex and expand the sports allowance scheme to cover an additional 200 athletes.
He unveiled these initiatives as the chief guest during the inauguration of the ‘Asian Para Games Training Camp 2026’ at the National Football Stadium in Dhaka on Thursday morning.
Pride, Not Stigma: A Call to Shift Social Attitudes
Urging a shift in societal mindsets toward individuals with special needs, the Minister highlighted that long-term support and equal opportunities can transform these athletes into valuable national assets.
‘A child whom many families keep hidden away out of social stigma is the very child who might one day win an Olympic, Asian Games, or Para Games medal for the nation. The time has come not to feel shame, but to feel immense pride.’
He further emphasized that the government’s primary focus is to ensure year-round, world-class training and infrastructure facilities, rather than providing short-term preparation right before major competitions.
Financial Protection and Grassroots Talent Search
To strengthen the social and economic security of athletes, several key measures are being implemented:
1. Expanding Sports Allowance: Currently, 300 athletes receive a regular government allowance. Within the next month, 200 additional para-athletes will be included, bringing the total number of beneficiaries to 500. New athletes winning gold medals or achieving significant success in international events will also be inducted into this scheme.
2. ‘Notun Kuri Para Sports’: Moving beyond capital-centric activities, a national talent identification competition named ‘Notun Kuri Para Sports’ will be launched across all 64 districts to discover special needs talent at the grassroots level.
Modernizing Infrastructure and Developing a ‘Sports Hub’
Following an inspection of the National Stadium’s environment, safety, and cleanliness, the Minister shared plans to develop the Mirpur Stadium area in Dhaka into a comprehensive ‘Sports Hub.’ Simultaneously, directives have been issued to expedite discussions for building a dedicated, modern Para Sports Complex tailored to the needs of special needs athletes.
Preparations are also underway to host regular national-level para-tournaments in collaboration with relevant sports authorities.
Pressenza is dedicated to promoting peace, nonviolence, non-discrimination, and human rights worldwide. State-led efforts to mainstream athletes with special needs mark a significant step toward building a more equitable and compassionate society.
Maksuda Lisa: Staff Correspondent, Pressenza- Dhaka Bureau.
