Bengaluru, October 17, 2024 – Today marks the beginning of the South Zone Regional Abilympics 2024 at St. Joseph’s University, Bengaluru. Organized by the National Abilympic Association of India (NAAI), this two-day event celebrates the exceptional vocational skills of the differently-abled community from across South India.
With over 100 participants competing in 15 vocational categories, the event exemplifies resilience, talent, and a steadfast commitment to inclusion. Given that Persons with Disabilities (PwDs) make up over 5% of India’s population, honing their skills can lead to significant societal and economic transformations. The Abilympics serves as a pivotal moment in advancing the inclusion agenda in India’s workforce.
Supported by various organizations, including the Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities (DEPwD), Tata Power Community Development Trust (TPCDT), and St. Joseph’s University, the event aims to empower individuals and promote inclusive practices within the workforce.
A Global Stage for Abilities
Known as the Olympics of Abilities, the Abilympics provides a global platform for PwDs to showcase their vocational skills and compete on both national and international levels. The event also highlights the pressing need for employment opportunities for the differently-abled, with skill development programs paving the way for careers in diverse sectors such as IT, hospitality, manufacturing, and creative fields.
The Chief Guest for the event, Smt. Geetanjali Kirloskar, Philanthropist & CEO of Toyota Insurance, expressed her confidence in the talent displayed by participants from Karnataka, Kerala, Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, and Telangana. “I wish all the participants great success, not only in these competitions but in their future endeavors. The Abilympics initiative celebrates those who dare to overcome their disabilities, and I am honored to be a part of this remarkable celebration of diversity and inclusion,” she stated.
Creating Pathways to Employment
Dr. Jitender Aggarwal, Secretary General of NAAI and Founder CEO of Sarthak Educational Trust, emphasized that the Abilympics is more than just a competition. “It’s about creating pathways to employment for PwDs. Today marks the beginning of a journey that celebrates their unique abilities and opens doors to new opportunities for empowerment,” he said. The first day featured impressive talent displays across ICT, Crafts, and Food Service categories, with winners set to represent India at the 11th International Abilympics in Finland in 2027.
Empowerment Through Giving Conference
Alongside the competition, a conference titled “Empowerment Through Giving: Celebrating Inclusion, Opportunity, and the Joy of Giving” discussed how Indian businesses and startups can accelerate the inclusion of differently-abled individuals in the workforce. Industry leaders argued that inclusion should be viewed not merely as corporate social responsibility but as a crucial business imperative.
Sanjay Kumar Das, Area Director – Operations (South) of Lemon Tree Hotels, shared insights on integrating differently-abled staff. “Our approach has been to provide every team member with the necessary tools to communicate and collaborate, ensuring that inclusion is a part of our daily operations,” he remarked.
Reliance Retail also showcased their ‘Parichay’ program, which focuses on upskilling employees to support their differently-abled colleagues effectively.
Corporate leaders highlighted how their CSR initiatives have not only catalyzed change but also created sustainable opportunities for PwDs. As the event unfolds, the emphasis will be on fostering long-term partnerships between participants and employers, driving a movement that reshapes the employment landscape for PwDs in India.
Looking Ahead
Following India’s historic achievement at the 10th International Abilympics in Metz, France, in 2023—where the country secured seven medals with a compact team—this South Zone Regional Abilympics is a significant step toward international recognition.
As the event progresses, all eyes are on the bright futures awaiting these talented individuals, paving the way for a more inclusive India.
Supported by:
- Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities (DEPwD)
- Tata Power Community Development Trust (TPCDT)
- St. Joseph’s University
- American Power Conversion by Schneider Electric (APCA)
- Apparel Training and Design Centre (ATDC)