The Union Minister of Petroleum & Natural Gas, Mr. Hardeep Singh Puri, inaugurated the 6th Oil and Natural Gas Corporation (ONGC) Para Games at Thyagaraj Stadium, New Delhi, on 7 March 2025. This four-day sporting event celebrates the remarkable resilience and achievements of para-athletes from India’s leading Oil & Gas Public Sector Undertakings (PSUs).
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Addressing the gathering, Mr. Puri lauded the spirit of determination and perseverance displayed by the athletes and emphasized the need for fostering inclusive platforms that empower para-athletes to excel.
“The ONGC Para Games is a shining example of a participatory approach to inclusivity and development. With every edition, these Games are growing stronger, attracting more participation and greater recognition. I am delighted to see that this year, over 350 para-athletes from various oil and gas PSUs are competing, showcasing their strength, skill, and unyielding spirit,” said the Minister.
Mr. Puri further remarked that the stories of grit and triumph behind each athlete’s journey serve as an inspiration for all.
“These achievements are not just about medals; they represent an indomitable will to succeed. I am confident that each participant will take away invaluable experiences, stronger camaraderie, and an even greater drive to achieve excellence in all walks of life,” he added.
Recognizing ONGC’s pioneering role in organizing Para Games among PSUs, Mr. Puri urged other corporations to take proactive initiatives in promoting sports and social inclusivity.
In his welcome address, Chairman & CEO of ONGC, Mr. Arun Kumar Singh, reiterated ONGC’s steadfast commitment to promoting para-sports and empowering individuals with special abilities.
“Since its inception in 2017, the ONGC Para Games has grown into a flagship annual event, encouraging talent and providing para-athletes with a platform to compete at an international standard. We take immense pride in supporting this movement and will continue fostering an ecosystem that uplifts and recognizes sporting excellence,” said Mr. Singh.
The ONGC Para Games, organized in collaboration with the Paralympic Committee of India, has seen exponential growth over the years. The first edition in 2017 witnessed 120 ONGC employees competing across multiple disciplines, including athletics, badminton, table tennis, and wheelchair races. Today, the Games have expanded significantly, with over 350 para-athletes from Indian Oil Corporation Limited (IOCL), Bharat Petroleum Corporation Limited (BPCL), Hindustan Petroleum Corporation Limited (HPCL), Engineers India Limited (EIL), Oil India Limited (OIL), Mangalore Refinery and Petrochemicals Limited (MRPL), and Gas Authority of India Limited (GAIL) participating in the 2025 edition.
Several para-athletes from ONGC and its partner PSUs have gone on to represent India at the Paralympics, bringing laurels to the nation. The continued success of the ONGC Para Games underscores the rising prominence and recognition of para-sports in India.
The 6th ONGC Para Games will conclude on 9 March 2025, with athletes vying for top honours across multiple sporting categories.
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