During a visit to the Voluntary Medicare Society, LG Sinha emphasized the government's commitment to empowering para athletes and enhancing adaptive sports in Jammu and Kashmir.
Leh, India Jul 23, 2026 ALN: Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Wednesday visited the Voluntary Medicare Society (VMS), which has been tirelessly serving Persons with Disabilities (PwDs) across Jammu and Kashmir for over five decades through healthcare, education, livelihood, and community inclusion. During his visit, he held key discussions with officials and Para Athletes regarding holistic empowerment, rehabilitation, and sports development for Divyangjan, a term used in India to refer to individuals with disabilities.
The VMS has played an instrumental role in advocating for the rights and needs of individuals with disabilities in the region. Founded by Dr. Mir Mohammad Maqbool, the organization has focused on providing comprehensive services that address various aspects of life for PwDs, including health care, educational opportunities, and community integration. The importance of such organizations cannot be overstated, especially in regions where resources and awareness about disability rights may be limited.
During the discussions, the office bearers of VMS, led by President/Founder Dr. Mir Mohammad Maqbool and Vice President Prof. Masooda Yasin, urged the Lieutenant Governor to build a robust and structured ecosystem for adaptive sports. This call to action reflects a growing recognition of the need for specialized support systems that can help para-athletes achieve their full potential in sports, which in turn can lead to enhanced self-esteem and community acceptance.
Key initiatives deliberated during the meeting included the introduction of robotic appliances for physiotherapy, which could significantly enhance the rehabilitation process for athletes recovering from injuries or adapting to their disabilities. Additionally, the establishment of healthcare and skill development facilities was discussed, which would provide para-athletes with the necessary tools and training to excel in their respective sports.
Moreover, the proposal to set up a J&K Para Sports Association aims to facilitate talent identification and development from the district level up to international competitions. This initiative is particularly crucial as it would create a structured pathway for aspiring para-athletes to progress in their sports careers. The development of an Indoor Para Sports Hall was also highlighted, which would provide accessible year-round training and rehabilitation facilities, a significant step towards ensuring that para-athletes have the infrastructure they need to train effectively.
The Lieutenant Governor expressed his commitment to addressing the core needs of athletes, which include specialized sports wheelchairs, modern equipment, coaching camps, exposure programs, and travel assistance. These elements are essential for providing para-athletes with the same opportunities as their able-bodied counterparts, thereby fostering an inclusive sporting environment.
In his address, the Lieutenant Governor emphasized that under the visionary leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the Government of India remains steadfast in its mission to uplift Divyangjan and ensure equal opportunities for all. He remarked, "In recent years, para-athletes from Jammu and Kashmir have brought immense pride to the region on national and global stages. The administration reaffirms its commitment to providing world-class infrastructure and support to nurture the potential of UT's specially-abled youth." This statement underscores the administration's recognition of the achievements of para-athletes and its resolve to foster an environment that allows them to thrive.
The Lieutenant Governor lauded the extraordinary dedication and selfless service of the entire team of the Voluntary Medicare Society and the organizations associated with it for transforming countless lives. His tour of the rehabilitation units, wards, and other facilities provided him with firsthand insight into the challenges faced by individuals with disabilities and the efforts being made to support them. Interacting with children with special needs, he expressed his admiration for the resilience and determination of these young individuals, who often overcome significant obstacles to pursue their dreams.
"Whenever meaningful social change occurs, it is driven by passionate individuals like Dr. Mir Mohammad Maqbool and all those serving here. Today, I connect myself with the Voluntary Medicare Society; just as its office bearers and volunteers give their hearts to this noble cause," he stated, emphasizing the importance of community involvement in driving social change.
The meeting was attended by key figures from the Voluntary Medicare Society, including Dr. Mir Mohammad Maqbool (President/Founder), Prof. Masooda Yasin (Vice President), Dr. Farooq Ahmad Kaloo (Secretary), Er. Majid Ahmad Bala (Executive Board Member), along with staff, coaches, trainers, and other office bearers of the Society. Additionally, SSP Srinagar Dr. G.V. Sundeep Chakravarthy, Deputy Commissioner Srinagar Akshay Labroo, and senior officers accompanied the Lieutenant Governor, highlighting the collaborative effort among various stakeholders to promote the welfare of persons with disabilities.
The implications of these discussions extend beyond just sports; they touch upon broader societal issues such as inclusivity, accessibility, and the empowerment of individuals with disabilities. By investing in adaptive sports and creating an enabling environment, the government and organizations like VMS are not only providing opportunities for athletic achievement but also fostering a sense of belonging and acceptance within the community.
As the conversation around disability rights and inclusion continues to evolve, it is essential for government bodies, NGOs, and the community at large to work together towards building a more inclusive society. The initiatives discussed during the meeting with the Lieutenant Governor represent a significant step in this direction, promising a brighter future for para-athletes and individuals with disabilities in Jammu and Kashmir.
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